SA Parliament backs Bafana ahead of Morocco trip
Bafana Bafana will depart for Morocco today carrying the backing of a united Parliament and the confidence of a morale-boosting victory, as South Africa’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 campaign edges closer.
As the national team prepares to step onto the continental stage, Members of Parliament from across the political divide have rallied behind Hugo Broos’ squad, sending messages of unity, pride and encouragement ahead of the tournament.
Chairperson of Parliament’s Sports Portfolio Committee, Joe McGluwa, led the show of support, urging the players to represent the country with passion and belief.
“Bafana Bafana are the pride of South Africa,” said McGluwa. “We want them to go out there, play their hearts out and make the country proud. Go and show Africa what South Africa is made of.”
The Patriotic Alliance also voiced its backing, assuring the players of unwavering national support as they prepare to compete at AFCON, while the Economic Freedom Fighters described the tournament as more than just a football competition.
EFF MP Eugene Mthethwa said AFCON symbolises unity and African pride. “We extend our full support to Bafana Bafana as they proudly represent our nation. This platform is not only about sporting excellence, but about unity, resilience and African pride,” he said.
Ghana victory provides timely boost
The messages of support follow Bafana Bafana’s 1–0 victory over Ghana’s Black Galaxies in the team’s official AFCON send-off match at Dobsonville Stadium in Soweto on Tuesday.
After a goalless first half, the hosts returned with greater intent after the break. Midfielder Sipho Mbule broke the deadlock with a composed finish, rewarding a spell of sustained pressure and handing Hugo Broos’ men a vital clean-sheet win.
Ghana countered in moments and came close to equalising in the 77th minute when substitute Rudolf Mensah struck the post, while goalkeeper Sipho Chaine was called into action late on, producing a sharp save in the 85th minute to preserve the lead.
Focus shifts to AFCON challenge
With their send-off complete, Bafana Bafana will depart for Morocco today to begin final preparations for AFCON 2025, where they have been drawn in Group B alongside Egypt, Angola and Zimbabwe.
Buoyed by political unity, national backing and a positive result on the pitch, Bafana Bafana head into the continental showpiece with belief — determined to turn promise into performance on African soil.