French football legend Claude Makelele praises the historic progress of South Africa and other African nations following their impressive performances at the FIFA World Cup. Picture: GEOFF CADDICK / AFP
France and Chelsea legend Claude Makelele believes African football—including South Africa—is trending in the right direction following the FIFA World Cup.
“Egypt did something exceptional even in defeat, Ivory Coast and Senegal fell just short, and Congo went out to England. South Africa too. It's progress, and we'll see the fruits of it at the next World Cup. It's good for world football,” Makelele told IOL via ComeOn.
Bafana Bafana made it through to the knockout stages for the first time in their history. Although they ultimately fell to co-hosts Canada in the Round of 32, their campaign was widely considered a triumph. In fact, even under the previous 32-team format, Bafana would have still progressed after finishing second in their group.
Meanwhile, Egypt looked destined for the quarter-finals after opening up a 2-0 lead in the 67th minute, before Argentina produced a stunning late comeback to seal a dramatic 3-2 victory. It was a cruel end to a campaign that briefly promised the downfall of the defending champions—a triumph that would have been one for the ages.
