Minister McKenzie hails Bafana Bafana despite World Cup exit to Canada

Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has paid tribute to Bafana Bafana after their historic FIFA World Cup campaign came to an end with a defeat to Canada in the knockout stages.

While acknowledging the disappointment of the loss, McKenzie said the team had made history by becoming the first South African men's side to reach the knockout rounds of a FIFA World Cup.

He congratulated Canada on their victory and also commended tournament hosts the United States, Canada and Mexico for successfully staging the global showpiece.

McKenzie praised the team's resilience after recovering from an opening defeat to Mexico to draw against Czechia before defeating South Korea 1-0 to secure a place in the Round of 32.

He also recognised coach Hugo Broos, the South African Football Association and the players for their dedication, highlighting captain Ronwen Williams, Teboho Mokoena and Thapelo Maseko for their outstanding contributions.

The minister said the campaign should serve as a catalyst for greater investment in football development, particularly school sport, to ensure more young talent is identified and nurtured.

McKenzie described the tournament as the beginning of a new era for South African football, saying Bafana Bafana had restored belief and shown the world that South Africa remains a proud football nation.