Bafana Bafana returns to hero’s welcome at OR Tambo after historic World Cup run
Bafana Bafana makes history with first-ever World Cup knockout qualification.
South Africa celebrated Bafana Bafana’s unforgettable FIFA World Cup campaign, with fans across the country proudly supporting the team at fan parks and in front of television screens.
The team’s historic performance united the nation, inspiring pride and excitement as Bafana Bafana delivered a memorable World Cup journey that will be remembered for years to come.
Emperors Palace’s Diski Fan Park at the Red Roman Shed was filled with passionate Bafana Bafana supporters on June 1.
ALSO READ: Bafana Bafana celebrate 30 years of AFCON
Fans gathered to watch South Africa’s opening 2026 FIFA World Cup match against the Mexico national football team.
Despite Bafana Bafana’s 2-0 defeat, fans remained hopeful and spirited throughout the evening.
Supporters, including Mantoa Mnguni of Germiston, Manikum Pillay of Benoni, Phokoletjo Mogowe of Tembisa, and John Welcome of Primrose Hill, continued to rally behind the national team.
In their next match, Bafana Bafana bounced back strongly, securing a draw and a win over the Czechia and South Korea national football teams to advance to the knockout stages for the first time in the nation’s history.
ALSO READ: Ethan Brooks looks to strengthen Bafana Bafana squad
The team was welcomed home at OR Tambo International Airport on June 2 following their defeat to co-hosts Canada on June 28.
Among the officials from the City of Ekurhuleni were acting mayor Jean Sethato and MMC for Human Settlements, Nsizwa Mekgwe.
The team returned to a hero’s welcome following their history-making FIFA World Cup campaign, having reached the knockout stages for the first time ever.
