SEDIBENG.- When Bafana Bafana come home from the FIFA World Cup 2026, they must hold their heads high.

They have done South Africa proud as the first generation of players to proceed beyond the group stages in this global tournament. They made a name for themselves on the global stage. Did Zakes’ Sports Corner mention, for the first time in history?

Of course, for the first time!

Forget how we were eliminated in this tournament and our first match defeat to the co-host, Mexico. Forget about the 1-1 draw we played against Czechia! World football history will never be written without mentioning their names.

We must lay a red carpet for them.

They achieved what many before them failed to achieve. When they come back, we must lay a red carpet for them.

They made all of us proud by reaching that stage of this global tournament.

No one gave them a chance.

MATTER OF FACT, no one gave Bafana Bafana a chance to proceed beyond the group stages, especially after Mexico’s defeat and 1-1 draw against Czechia. They deserve a gallant welcome when they come back. Zakes’ Sports Corner challenges all of South Africa to show respect to our national team when they arrive at OR Tambo Airport.

United we must stand!

Broos needs to be honoured!

We need to treat all players and technical staff with respect for doing something others before them failed to do. As for Bafana Bafana Coach, Hugo Broos, he needs to be honoured for taking us to the World Cup after 16 years.

If indeed he will be retiring after the World Cup, Zakes’ Sports Corner suggests that he must be given a decent send-off. The man showed us that nothing is impossible, and as a country, we can continue where he left off.

He built a solid foundation for our national team for the new coach to continue from. Those youngsters who are part of Bafana Bafana must be protected and kept in the system.

Let them come home with pride!