Johannesburg: Bafana Bafana, South Africa's national football team, has garnered nationwide support as they head to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to take place across Mexico, the United States, and Canada next month. President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed the nation's backing during a send-off dinner, highlighting the team's role in carrying the hopes and dreams of over 62 million South Africans.
According to South African Government News Agency, President Ramaphosa emphasized the significance of the team's achievement, marking their first qualification for the World Cup in over two decades. He urged the team to aim for more than just participation, encouraging them to compete with determination and ambition to bring the trophy home. The President acknowledged the team's challenging journey to qualification, having faced strong competition from several African nations.
President Ramaphosa highlighted the essential qualities that brought Bafana Bafana to this point, including resilience, discipline, and commitment. He commended the investment in football development and praised local clubs like Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns for their domestic and continental successes. The President also recognized the team as ambassadors of South Africa's democracy and resilience.
The team's participation in the World Cup represents a unique opportunity for both the players and the nation. President Ramaphosa called on the squad to seize the moment, play with pride, and embody the spirit of South Africa. The final 26-man squad, announced by Head Coach Hugo Broos, includes a mix of goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards, all set to represent South Africa on the world stage.