The Big Picture: Is it still Africa's World Cup?
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.In Ghana we trust:
A record six African nations qualified for this World Cup, but Ghana are now the continent's only team. Their favourable draw, however, means the Black Stars stand a good chance of becoming the first African team to ever reach the semi-finals of a World Cup.
Europe-based:
Sulley Muntari is one of four members of the Ghana squad plying their trade in Italy – 19 Africans play in Serie A, less than half those in the Premier League, which has 57 registered African players.
High security:
South African police have joined with private firms to provide top-level security to players at all times. On match days they have been keen to liaise with their counterparts abroad on how best to control their particular fans.
Sparkling feet:
Nike's vivid purple, orange and white boots, worn by 44 per cent of players, have lit up the World Cup.
Big chill:
Despite fans arriving in beachwear, temperatures have dropped as low as -5C at night, freezing training pitches and disrupting practice sessions.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments