The Minister of Sport and Recreation, Mr Fikile April Mbalula lauded Bafana Bafana for a well spirited and bitter fight during the 2013 AFCON soccer showpiece which resulted in their exit from the continental showpiece after failing to beat Mali during a tough quarter finals at the Moses Mabhida stadium. The game saw Mali proceeding to the semi-finals after winning with penalties against South Africa. For two weeks South Africa has displayed excellent performance on and off the field, which inspired many across the length and breadth of our beloved country.
We take pride in the support and confidence expressed by President Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma to Bafana Bafana prior and during the AFCON soccer tournament. President Zuma delegated a high level delegation led by the Minister of Sport and Recreation, Mr Fikile Mbalula accompanied by the KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Dr. Zweli Mkhize, e-Thekwini Executive Mayor Councillor James Nxumalo and SAFA Leadership, to comfort and bring solace to Bafana Bafana. They also thanked them for donning the South African jersey with pride.
“Our team fought hard and dominated but as a nation we understood that there could only be one winner. For us, South Africa has already won by being the best of this successful tournament. We wish Mali and all the other teams well in their endeavour to lift the AFCON 2013 trophy on the 10th of February. As the Government of South Africa, we remain resolute that this is the best AFCON tournament ever hosted in our country. We look forward to Bafana Bafana representing us proudly in Brazil both at the 2014 Confederations and the FIFA World Cup. We thank South Africans who continued to rally behind Bafana Bafana and plead for their continued support towards the remaining teams in the tournament”. Minister Mbalula said.
Football fans are encouraged to observe the Football Friday campaign by wearing their football jerseys on Fridays to show support towards the 2013 AFCON tournament. “Let the best team win” concluded Minister Mbalula.
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Sports and Recreation Minister Fikile Mbalula lauds Bafana Bafana's bitter fight until the end
