The South African government has congratulated Bafana Bafana after their historic qualification for the knockout stages of FIFA World Cup 2026, describing the achievement as a proud moment for the nation.
In a statement released following South Africa’s crucial 1-0 victory over South Korea, government praised the team’s determination, discipline and fighting spirit on one of football’s biggest stages.
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‘Fighting spirit’
“The impressive result is a proud moment for South Africa and reflects the team’s determination, discipline and fighting spirit on one of the world’s biggest sporting stages.
“The performance has inspired hope and excitement among South Africans at home and abroad, while showcasing the country’s football talent to the world,” the statement read.
Bafana Bafana secured their place in the Round of 32 thanks to a second-half strike from Thapelo Maseko at Estadio Monterrey on Wednesday.
The winger found the bottom corner in the 63rd minute to seal a famous victory and send South Africa into the knockout rounds of a FIFA World Cup for the first time.
The result saw Hugo Broos’ side finish second in Group A on four points behind group winners Mexico, who completed their campaign with a 3-0 win over the Czech Republic.
South Africa will now face co-hosts Canada in Los Angeles on Sunday, 28 June, with a place in the last 16 at stake.
Kick-off in that match is at 21:00 (SA time).
Praised his players
Following the victory, coach Hugo Broos praised his players for executing the game plan to perfection.
“I think we played a very good game tactically. It was very good; everyone did their job. We limited South Korea’s opportunities and created chances of our own. I’m very proud of the performance of my team,” Broos said.
The win sparked celebrations among South African supporters, with fans hailing the team’s resilience after opening the tournament with a defeat before battling back with a draw against the Czech Republic and a decisive victory over South Korea.
Bafana Bafana’s World Cup dream is now very much alive as they prepare for the biggest knockout match in the nation’s football history.
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