Luis Enrique ’emotional’ at tribute to his daughter after Champions League win

Paris St Germain boss Luis Enrique has suffered a fractured collarbone in a cycling accident.

The club said the Spaniard, who led PSG to the Champions League title last season, would undergo surgery after sustaining the injury on Friday.

In a statement on X, PSG said: “Following a cycling accident on Friday, Paris St Germain head coach Luis Enrique was treated by the emergency services and will undergo surgery for a fractured collarbone.

“The club expresses its full support and wishes him a swift recovery. Further updates will be shared in due course.”

PSG beat Tottenham in the UEFA Super Cup last month and have won their opening three games of the Ligue 1 season.

They next play against Lens on September 14.

Bafana Bafana Secures Their Spot in World Cup Qualifiers: A Triumph for South African Football

In a thrilling and hard-fought encounter, Bafana Bafana, South Africa’s national football team, has secured their spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

This achievement marks a significant milestone in the country’s football history, bringing a much-needed sense of optimism and pride to the nation’s passionate football supporters.

The Road to the 2026 World Cup

South Africa’s journey to securing their place in the World Cup qualifiers has not been without its challenges. Following the disappointment of failing to qualify for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, Bafana Bafana was eager to redeem themselves and restore their standing in African football.

The team faced numerous hurdles along the way, including a turbulent managerial situation, injuries to key players, and stiff competition from other top African nations.

However, coach Hugo Broos, who took charge of the national team in 2021, has been instrumental in reshaping the squad and instilling a sense of discipline and unity within the team.

Under his guidance, Bafana Bafana has undergone a tactical overhaul, focusing on a more disciplined, counter-attacking style of play that has begun to pay dividends.

Broos, who is known for his emphasis on youth development, has also brought in fresh faces, blending experienced players with younger talents.

This mix of youth and experience has proven vital in ensuring that South Africa remains competitive on the continental stage.

Key Matches and Turning Points

The qualifiers have been a true test of Bafana Bafana’s resilience and ability to adapt to different styles of play.

The team was placed in a tough qualifying group for the 2026 World Cup alongside the likes of Ghana, Mali, and Zimbabwe.

The intense competition meant that every match was a high-stakes encounter, with Bafana Bafana needing to consistently perform at their best to stay in contention.

One of the pivotal moments in the campaign came during South Africa’s crucial match against Ghana in the final round of group fixtures.

Having drawn in the first leg in Cape Coast, the return match at home in Johannesburg was set to be a defining moment.

The atmosphere at the FNB Stadium was electric, with supporters showing up in droves to back their team.

The match ended in a hard-fought 1-0 victory for Bafana Bafana, courtesy of a stunning header from the team’s captain, Thulani Hlatshwayo.

This win secured the team’s qualification for the next round of World Cup qualifiers, marking a major psychological boost for the players and fans alike.

Another significant moment came when South Africa faced Mali in a match that would ultimately decide the fate of their qualification campaign.

The Malians, a powerful team with a strong pedigree in African football, posed a real threat to Bafana Bafana’s ambitions.

However, South Africa held their ground, showcasing a defensive solidity that has been a hallmark of their recent performances.

A crucial goal from star forward Percy Tau sealed a 2-1 victory, ensuring that South Africa would move on to the next stage with confidence and momentum.

The Role of Key Players

Throughout the qualifiers, certain players have stood out as instrumental to Bafana Bafana’s success.

Percy Tau, who has been in scintillating form, continues to be a key player for the team.

His ability to unlock opposition defenses with his dribbling and vision has made him one of the most dangerous players in African football.

Playing in Europe, particularly for clubs like Al Ahly in Egypt, has also enhanced Tau’s experience and technical ability, making him an even more valuable asset for South Africa.

Other key players such as goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, who has been in fantastic form, and central defender Thulani Hlatshwayo, who continues to lead from the back, have provided the backbone of the team’s solid defensive setup.

These players, alongside the likes of Bongani Zungu, Themba Zwane, and Sipho Mbule, have shown maturity and composure in pressure situations.

The impact of coach Hugo Broos should not be understated.

His ability to manage the team, despite the high expectations and pressure, has been pivotal.

Broos has worked to instill a mentality of resilience and self-belief, ensuring that his team remains focused even in the face of adversity.

The Significance for South African Football

The qualification of Bafana Bafana for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers is more than just a sporting achievement; it is a symbolic moment for the entire country.

Football in South Africa is more than just a game; it is a unifying force that brings together a diverse nation.

The joy and sense of pride that this achievement has brought to the South African people cannot be overstated.

It has reignited the national passion for the game and given a new generation of fans and players hope for the future.

Moreover, this success represents the progress that South African football has made in recent years.

After a series of disappointments, the country now has a team that is capable of competing at the highest level once again.

With continued investment in grassroots football and youth development, South Africa’s footballing future looks promising.

Looking Ahead to the World Cup

As Bafana Bafana looks ahead to the final phase of the World Cup qualifiers, there is optimism that the team can continue to build on their recent successes.

The road to the 2026 World Cup is still long, but with the right mentality, preparation, and support, South Africa has a good chance of not only qualifying for the tournament but also making an impact once they are there.

 Bafana Bafana’s qualification for the World Cup qualifiers is a triumph for South African football, a testament to hard work, determination, and a collective will to succeed.

The team’s journey is a story of resilience, and it serves as an inspiration for football lovers across the continent.

As the countdown to 2026 continues, one thing is for sure—Bafana Bafana is ready to take on the world once again.