Bafana carry a nation’s hope, and the aspirations of the stars denied a place on the world stage

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos, goalkeeper coach Grant Johnson, Adela Hassan, Liyah London and former Bafana Bafana midfielder Helman Mkhalele.

BAFANA Bafana rewrote the mood of the nation this week when they beat South Korea to advance to the knockout stages of the World Cup for the first time in history.

Fans went from disbelief to delight when Thapelo Maseko’s 63rd-minute strike booked South Africa a date with Canada at SoFi Stadium in California on Sunday. The question now is whether Hugo Broos’ side can do it again.

Goalkeeper coach Grant Johnson said the team had quickly turned their attention to the demands of tournament football, with recovery and travel becoming as important as training sessions.

“I just want South Africa to know that the team is doing their best. There are days where you have an off day like we did in the opening match, but they've got to know that we're giving it our all for the country. Please continue supporting us.”