The Springboks know a thing or two about succeeding at World Cup tournaments, but it is now Bafana Bafana’s time to enjoy their moment in the sun after securing historic qualification for the next stage of the FIFA World Cup.
In many ways, Bafana’s Bafana’s progression against all odds is probably an achievement that would rank closely to the Springboks reaching a World Cup final when considering the full context.
While the Springboks generally enter a World Cup as one of the clear favourites, Bafana Bafana were written off pretty much the moment they stepped onto the field in their opener against Mexico, and even more so after slumping to a 2-0 defeat.
And yet they bounced back in a fashion that the Springboks have joyfully celebrated, with a post quickly going up on the social media account for the rugby world champions: “This is a moment of immense pride and historic significance for our nation. As South Africans, we celebrate this achievement together, united in joy and admiration for the dedication, resilience and spirit shown by our players on the world stage,” a heartfelt statement read.
“The support from home can be a powerful source of inspiration and we encourage all South Africans to continue rallying behind Bafana Bafana as they carry our hopes and dreams forward. Their success reminds us of the strength found in unity and the boundless potential of our nation when we stand together.
“We salute Safa and Bafana Bafana for this milestone and wish them continued success in the journey ahead.”
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SPRINGBOKS CELEBRATE SUCCESS OF BAFANA BAFANA
Historic achievement
Bafana Bafana had never gone past the group stages of the global tournament after stumbling in the opening stages of the 1998, 2002 and 2010 World Cups. But they made amends in dramatic fashion in Monterrey when they overcame a highly regarded South Korea side.
The South African senior men’s national team will now face 2026 FIFA World Cup co-hosts Canada in the Last 32 in Los Angeles on Sunday, 28 June 2026.
“I think we played a very good game, tactically. It was very good and everybody did their job. The difference with this game and our previous match (against Czechia) was that when we had the ball we were very dangerous, and that was a very important,” coach Hugo Broos said.
“We had very quick players on the pitch, and we used them very well. We found the spaces during the good moments. And then yeah, we needed that goal. We had a few chances in the first half, and I told the players at halftime to keep on believing. I am very proud of the performance of my team.”