Xenophobic Attack: Madagascar Boycotts South Africa Friendly

Xenophobic Attack: Madagascar Boycotts South Africa Friendly

By Niyi Busari

Madagascar on Thursday have decided to cancel the international friendly against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana earlier scheduled for this weekend.

The news which broke on Thursday on South Africa Football Association SAFA Twitter handle did not disclose in details the reasons behind the cancellation, but it is believed Madagascar pulled out over security concerns following the recent attack on foreign (African) nationals in the Country.

In a tweet on Thursday, Bafana’s official twitter handle confirmed The Barea will not honor the invitation to play in the Country.

Breaking News: SAFA regrets to inform the public that the match between Bafana Bafana and Madagascar scheduled for this coming Saturday (7 September) has been called off after the visitors (Madagascar) decided to withdraw from the encounter. https://t.co/HVD6nRLu4r

Meanwhile, South Africa Football Association (SAFA) president, Danny Jordaan says SAFA completely condemn the xenophobic attacks and criminal destruction of properties happening in South Africa. Jordaan explain that the Madagascan FA contacted SAFA when they were on the plane ready to fly and were asked to stay in South Africa that the friendly match is cancelled.

Zambia national team had earlier rejected playing a friendly match against Bafana Bafana in solidarity with other African country men being killed in xenophobic attack in South Africa.