SA Rugby And President Ramaphosa Celebrate Bafana Historic World Cup Qualification
The South African Rugby Union (SARU) has joined millions of citizens across the country in expressing excitement after Bafana Bafana made history by reaching the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup for the first time.
Thapelo Maseko became the second-youngest goalscorer for South Africa in FIFA World Cup history, aged 22 years and 225 days. The Mamelodi Sundowns left-winger fired home the decisive second goal against South Korea at Estadio Monterrey on Thursday morning.
Against the run of play, Tshepang Moremi collected the ball on the left wing, beat a defender, and fizzed a pass across the edge of the penalty area. Maseko controlled the ball inward toward his left foot and slotted the winning goal past the near post.
As runners-up in Group A, Bafana Bafana will play their next match in Los Angeles on 28 June against Canada, the runners-up of Group B.
“SA Rugby extends its warmest congratulations to SAFA and Bafana Bafana on advancing to the Round of 32 at the FIFA World Cup,” SARU said in a statement.
“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.
“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.”
The Springboks know better than anyone how to make South Africans proud, as the defending Rugby World Cup champions. Having won the tournament’s last two editions, they stand as the most successful rugby team in the world.
Following next year’s Rugby World Cup in Australia, the 2031 edition will take place in the United States. Later this year, the Boks are also scheduled to play the last of their four matches against New Zealand in the USA, renewing rugby’s greatest rivalry.
Bafana Bafana’s historic victory marks South Africa’s third-ever win at a FIFA World Cup, adding to their 2002 triumph over Slovenia in South Korea/Japan and their famous 2010 victory against France on home soil.
“What a breakthrough for our Bafana Bafana! Our spirit is strengthened, and our mood is green and gold! Well done Bafana Bafana,” said the KZN Department of Sport in a statement.
The South African government, under President Cyril Ramaphosa, added: “A memorable night for South African football as Bafana Bafana secure a place in the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup for the first time. The team has shown courage, determination, and belief, making the nation proud on the world stage.
“South Africa stands united in celebration. Congratulations, Bafana Bafana, the journey continues!”
