Share

SAFA boss lauds Bafana spirit

Johannesburg - The SA Football Association (SAFA) has lauded the national soccer team after Bafana Bafana reached the Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinals for the first time in 11 years.

Bafana drew 2-2 against Morocco in Durban on Sunday to finish top of Group A, booking their place in the playoffs of the continental tournament for the first time since the 2002 showpiece in Mali.

“You have brought pride and honour to the nation and today you have written a piece of history for yourselves, families and friends," SAFA president Kirsten Nematandani said in a statement.

VIDEO: Bafana v Morocco, highlights

South Africa fought back twice to equalise against the Moroccans, with May Mahlangu and Siyabonga Sangweni finding the back of the net to ensure their progress in the competition.

"You deserve to walk tall. You showed the entire football world that you have the fighting spirit and that the adage ‘it is never over until the fat lady sings’ is a true expression of competitive soccer games."

Nematandani hoped the host team would go on to reach the final.

“We are confident that this achievement will now spur you to go all the way in this tournament.

"The entire country is behind you; their support and spirit will carry you all the way."

Bafana face the Group B runners-up, to be decided on Monday evening, in their quarter-final match at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1194 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
30% - 1385 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2109 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE