Bafana Bafana determined to bounce back at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Bafana Bafana are determined to bounce back in their next two group matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following Thursday’s disappointment of losing their opening match.

Bafana Bafana lost two-nil to the co-hosts, Mexico, in the opening match of the tournament in Mexico City.

The team wants to stage a dramatic comeback, as they did at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.

Bafana lost to Mali in their opening match but went on to win the bronze medal at the tournament.

South African Football Association (SAFA) national executive committee member Pooby Govindasamy says the main aim of the team is to reach the second round of the World Cup for the very first time in four attempts.

Govindasamy says, “On behalf of the SAFA NEC and the rest of our fellow countrymen there we wish Bafana Bafana all of the best and also to the SABC, thank you for all the support that you have given to the team and us. Thank you. We do stand a good chance; I think I am very optimistic that we gonna get to the second round. I am hoping that we can get past the second round; for me, it will be a bonus personally. But I’m confident our boys will do well, I’m confident.”

Bafana Bafana, who are based in Pachuca, Mexico, will depart for the United States (US) on Tuesday for their second group match against the Czech Republic.

Govindasamy believes that a lot of travel involved in this year’s tournament will not negatively affect the team.

Govindasamy says, “I think for all of the teams it’s challenging because travelling is quite heavy, but I’m sure they have done enough in Africa. Most of the players have been playing in Africa for their clubs, Sundowns, Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, all of those clubs, so the players are used to it. So, this is nothing unusual, and I’m sure that the event, because of its magnitude they will do well. I’m sure it won’t be a problem for them.”

Video| FIFA World Cup | Reaction to Bafana Bafana’s loss to Mexico – Mark Fish