President Cyril Ramaphosa addresses the nation ahead of the FIFA World Cup, urging unity and support for Bafana Bafana, and saying the team carries the hopes of 62 million South Africans as they prepare for their opening match against Mexico.
President Cyril Ramaphosa says Bafana Bafana heads into the FIFA World Cup carrying the expectations and unity of “62 million South Africans,” as the country rallies behind the squad ahead of their opening match against Mexico.
Ramaphosa framed the team’s participation as more than sport, describing it as a moment of national identity and collective hope.
“They carry with them the best wishes of more than 62 million South Africans who will be cheering them on at every stage of the tournament,” Ramaphosa said.
The President said the figure reflects not only population scale but national sentiment, positioning the team as a unifying symbol in a country marked by diversity and shared aspiration.
