Excitement and pride are still palpable among football fans in Fourways after the night of October 14 as Bafana Bafana secured their spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 3–0 victory over Rwanda.
Supporters gathered in homes, local pubs, and community spots to watch South Africa’s decisive win, and the reactions were filled with awe, relief, and anticipation for what lies ahead.
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“I did watch the whole game, and what a performance,” said Thato Molomo, a longtime Bafana supporter and finalist in the Gauteng Sports Awards 2024, among others.
“From the first whistle, the team looked sharp, confident, and focused. Thalente Mbatha’s early goal set the tone, Oswin Appollis doubled it, and Evidence Makgopa’s header sealed the deal. It was the perfect response to all the nerves going into the match.”
Not everyone managed to watch the full game, but even those catching parts were impressed. Tumisang Motsei, a local football player, said, “I couldn’t watch the full 90 minutes because of training, but what I saw blew me away. I can’t remember Bafana playing this well in recent memory.
I was confident about the win, but I wasn’t sure if the other results would fall in our favour. Thankfully, they did, and now we’re going to the World Cup.”
Soccer fans also praised head coach Hugo Broos for guiding the team to qualification. “Broos has been brilliant,” said Claudio Lorenzani, a football coach from Transition Football Club in Fourways.
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“He’s built a team that blends youth and experience. The discipline, mental resilience, and tactical intelligence on show against Rwanda reflect his steady leadership. This squad is ready for the global stage.”
Fans highlighted individual brilliance as well. Appollis was applauded for his creativity and work rate, while Mbatha earned recognition for setting the game’s pace.
Makgopa’s second-half header was the perfect finish to a dominant display. “It wasn’t just one or two players,” Molomo added. “The whole team worked together. Defence, midfield, and attack were all in sync. That’s what makes this qualification so special.”
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