Hundreds of jubilant South Africans packed the international arrivals hall at O.R. Tambo International Airport on Thursday morning to give Bafana Bafana a heroes’ welcome after the national team returned from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they made history by reaching the knockout stages for the first time.
Supporters dressed in green and gold waved South African flags, sang football chants, beat drums and held up banners celebrating the team’s remarkable achievement. The electric atmosphere transformed the airport into a sea of celebration as players emerged to thunderous applause after their memorable campaign in North America.
Bafana Bafana, coached by Hugo Broos, reached the Round of 32 after recovering from an opening defeat to Mexico. They drew with Czechia before defeating South Korea to secure a historic place in the knockout rounds, the furthest South Africa has ever progressed at a FIFA World Cup. Their dream run ended with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Canada after conceding a late goal, but their performances won widespread admiration at home and abroad.
Among those leading the welcome was Gayton McKenzie, who praised the squad for inspiring the nation throughout the tournament.
“It is with enormous pride and a heart full of gratitude that I congratulate Bafana Bafana on completing what has been the most extraordinary chapter in the history of South African football,” McKenzie said in a government tribute following the team’s World Cup exit.
“Bafana Bafana reached the knockout rounds of a FIFA World Cup for the first time in their history. In their fourth World Cup appearance… these young men did what no South African team has ever done before. They made it through, and that is not a small thing. That is history that cannot be erased,” he added.
McKenzie also urged South Africans to turn out in large numbers to welcome the players home, describing them as heroes who had united the country through their courage, resilience and determination during the tournament.
The minister singled out coach Broos and captain Ronwen Williams, while also praising stars including Teboho Mokoena and Thapelo Maseko, whose decisive goal against South Korea secured South Africa’s place in the knockout rounds.
Although the team’s World Cup journey ended in the first knockout round, supporters at the airport made it clear they viewed the campaign as a victory for South African football. Songs echoed through the terminal as fans celebrated a squad that rewrote the country’s football history and reignited belief that Bafana Bafana can compete with the world’s best.
Bongi Sikelo 