PICTURES: Africa’s fan culture a hit with Russians

DStv Compact took kumnand’ ekhaya (our home is great) to new heights at a private viewing of the World Cup match between Nigeria and Argentina – giving guests a taste of Africa’s renowned hospitality.

Before the World Cup kicked off, Minnie Dlamini went to Russia to find the coolest Russian fans to bring to South Africa to experience the World Cup and Africa’s buzzing fan spirit – Africa’s exhilarating fan culture was exhibited at Asanka Restaurant, a Ghanaian afro-fusion establishment in Rivonia.

READ: VIDEO: Minnie finds Russians to bring home

The Russians were joined by the likes of Maps Maponyane, Stoan Seate, Rouge, Ms Cosmo and Eric Macheru. The night was filled with the best West-African cuisine, sounds of the vuvuzela and cheers in support of te Super Eagles, a moment that saw Vyacheslav ‘Slava’ Morozov, one of the Russian fans, remind all in attendance of the thrilling feeling of the 2010 World Cup.

“It feels as if the World Cup is back in South Africa. Our friends and family are so focused on what we’re doing here and not what is happening in Russia, which gives it that exact feeling,” added another Russian fan Dmitry Pogosov.

With the support of DStv Compact, Somizi has been treating the Russians – Veronica Fofanova, Pogosov, Morozov and Tatiana Beloshaphika – to a full Mzansi experience which also saw the likes of Nomzamo Mbatha, Kwesta and other celebrities introduce the Russians to local music, anthems and dance moves.

READ: #ICYMI: Somizi to host Russians for World Cup

Despite the departure of all the African teams in the World Cup, the Russians said they would continue to rally behind the remaining teams in the best way African fans know how –through high spirits, song and praise.

READ: #ICYMI: Moments from the World Cup’s opening match

Viewers can catch all 64 games live and in HD on SuperSport.