Remember Paul the Octopus? Now Cape Town’s Cherry is getting in on the FIFA World Cup fun with her own match prediction.
Cape Town, South Africa (11 June 2026) – The FIFA Fever is starting, and we are so excited! Joining the hype is Cherry, an octopus from the Two Oceans Aquarium. Following in the tenticles of Paul the Octopus, of FIFA 2010 fame, Cherry has made her first prediction.
Paul was the psychic cephalopod who captivated football fans during the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Coming from Germany, the octopus was a fan favourite during the South African-hosted World Cup.
Now, Cherry, a local and proudly South African octopus, is restarting the fun. First up, the World Cup opened between Mexico and South Africa.
Who do you think she picks?
“We’ve joined the FIFA World Cup excitement! ⚽🐙
Our resident octopus, Cherry, was given the ultimate challenge: predicting the winner of tonight’s opening FIFA World Cup match by choosing between South Africa and Mexico.
Will Cherry’s prediction be correct? You’ll have to watch the match this evening to find out! 👀🏆This prediction activity forms part of Cherry’s enrichment programme. Through prey puzzles hidden in jars, tubes, and boxes, tactile toys, and interactive keeper sessions, she is encouraged to use her natural hunting instincts, problem-solving skills, and curiosity to explore her environment.” – Two Oceans Aquarium
Take a look at her very bold prediction below:
We did have a good giggle at her selection, let’s hope this time she is just learning the ropes…


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