Despite a devastating 2-0 loss to Mexico in Bafana Bafana’s opening match at the FIFA World Cup, Gayton McKenzie has assured the team that he remains a firm supporter.
The South African national team trended on social media after their goalless match, which resulted in two red cards for players Sphephelo “Yaya” Sithole and Themba Zwane.
The squad, led by coach Hugo Broos, will play two more Group A matches, against opponents Czechia and South Korea.
GAYTON SENDS MESSAGE TO BAFANA BAFANA
While many critics trolled the national team, Gayton McKenzie sent a message of encouragement to Bafana Bafana after their opening match loss to Mexico at the FIFA World Cup.
The Minister of Sport tweeted: “You lost like the champs that you are today, you didn’t humiliate us, you gave undeserved respect to the Mexicans on the field”.
He added: “We have a team here that can go very far, let’s not give up on this team, South Africa. Let us stand behind our boys”.
Under the post, many South Africans disagreed with Gayton’s diplomatic stance.
@SakiSoulM: “No…dnt sugarcoat stuff Minister. This was the most disjointed Bafana in all the World Cups we played in. They never even tried”
@teeay87: “The furthest they are going is home, the starting 11 was bad, playing with 6 defenders. He must have a winning mindset. There are good players who were left out. Today was a horrible game. Don’t praise nonsense. The coach must change his team and tactics fast”
@Ngabom_: “Don’t condone nonsense. That game plan was crap. Since when do we park the bus with 5 at the back?”
SHOCK AND MEMES
Meanwhile, social media was flooded with criticism and memes directed at Bafana after their disappointing defeat.
A viral clip of former Bafana players Aaron Mokoena and Benni McCarthy reacting to the loss summed up how many fans felt.
Responding to the social media banter, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula called for South Africans to keep their spirits up and rally behind Bafana.
He tweeted: “One result does not define this journey. The fact that Bafana Bafana is HERE is the victory most doubted, and most of the haters we’ve seen are doing so outside the club because they couldn’t get in.
“We stand as a country solid behind our boys – and won’t bury them for a single match when they’ve already defied every doubt. Rise, South Africa. Our boys are not done”.