Bafana Bafana’s Emphatic 3–0 Victory over Rwanda and Qualification for FIFA World Cup has filled a Nation with Joy
I want to extend the proudest of congratulations to Bafana Bafana on their outstanding 3–0 victory over Rwanda and for qualifying for the FIFA World Cup for the first time since 2002. You did not just win a football match, you made a powerful statement about what is possible when South Africans believe, unite and fight together.
Tonight, the boys played with heart, discipline and determination. This was a performance that showed maturity and pride. Coach Hugo Broos, his technical staff and every player in the squad deserve the applause of the entire nation – coming through undeterred by a setback that may have derailed campaigns of the past.
Last year, when I told the leadership of the South African Football Association (SAFA) that the two things the Ministry expected of them was qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup, there were those who doubted. However, the potential of South African football is great, and we are now finally starting to see its realisation. It is only natural to expect the best from players born in what we know is the greatest sporting nation on earth.
I would like to thank SAFA for delivering on the biggest of all expectations.
To our master tactician coach, Hugo Broos, assistant coach, Helman Mkhalele, the technical team, support staff and everyone else who put in hours of hard work and sacrifice to make these dreams come true, we salute you.
It is important that we keep investing in our home-grown talent, recognising that most of Bafana’s squad ply their trade in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), and all the players who won tonight are based in South Africa. Tonight’s qualification is also a feather in the cap of the PSL, which has produced continental club winners and, now, a national team capable of troubling the world’s best.
You have given our country hope again. You have reminded us that South African football belongs on the world stage and that we are capable of greatness.
The whole country stands behind you, Bafana. Qualifying for the FIFA World Cup is only the beginning. Keep fighting, keep believing and keep making South Africa proud.
Halala Bafana Bafana! We are going to North America.
For media enquiries:
Ms. Stacey-Lee Khojane, Spokesperson: Office of the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture
Email: StaceyK@dsac.gov.za
Cell: +27 77 608 7579
Ms. Phatheka Ntanta, Deputy Director: Communication and Marketing: Department of Sport, Arts and Culture
Email: PhatekaN@dsac.gov.za
Cell: +27 79 523 9751
