South African cabinet ministers have thrown their weight behind the national soccer team, Bafana Bafana, ahead of their clash with co-hosts Mexico at the Estadio Azteca.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is just hours away. The kick-off of the World Cup’s first game is set for 9:00pm on Thursday night.
48 nations are taking part in the tournament.
Ministers Patricia de Lille, Ronald Lamola and Gayton Mckenzie shared their excitement ahead of the match.
De Lille says, “Until after the match, when we’ll be brothers and sisters with Mexico again, but Bafana Bafana number one.”
Lamola says this World Cup is a good opportunity. “I’m glad Minister De Lille and Minister McKenzie are here. I believe these two countries can build on two economies.”
Mckenzie says, “Because I saw the media underestimating them and telling them they stand no chance, I went to them and I said, ‘that’s a gift’. Being underestimated is a gift because there’s no pressure. So take that gift and turn it around. I’m telling you today, you’re going to see boys that are ready to fight for their country.”
FIFA WORLD CUP | South Africans are rallying behind Bafana Bafana ahead of tonight’s kickoff. Sakina Kamwendo speaks to Robert Marawa, who is very optimistic about the team’s chances. pic.twitter.com/w24WFXKwlp
— SABC News (@SABCNews) June 11, 2026
