The Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Lebogang Maile, has reached out at Bafana Bafana, following their hard-fought 2-0 loss to hosts Mexico, in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Despite the unfavorable result, MEC Maile praised the team's relentless effort and attitude to never give up.
"Our boys showed resilience against all odds. They never folded and kept it going until the end," said MEC Maile.
"They battled hard for the badge and the aspirations of millions of South Africans back home. We say to them football is a game of mistakes and chances and against a top 15 ranked team with such overwhelming home support, they were unfortunately at the end of the harsh realities of the game.
“We call on them to hold their heads high, regroup and confront the harsh technical lessons of the match and learn from it. Tactically they faced an uphill battle, however they showed their intentions and readiness to do their best even with 2 men short.”
MEC Maile urged the public to pull together and rally behind the team as they navigate the group stage.
"A single result does not dictate our destiny. We call on the nation to lift our players up, drown out the noise, and show them unconditional love and support. This disappointment should serve as motivation for the next games to stay in the tournament for as long as it is possible,” said Maile.
Enquiries
Onwabile Lubhelwana
Cell: 071 531 4513
Email: Onwabile.Lubhelwana@gauteng.gov.za
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