Mzansi reacts as President Cyril Ramaphosa celebrates Bafana Bafana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification

Ramaphosa celebrates 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification

South Africans are buzzing with pride after Bafana Bafana officially qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking the nation’s first appearance at the tournament since hosting it in 2010.

The national team sealed their spot after a 3-0 victory over Rwanda in their final qualifying match on Tuesday, finishing top of their group with 18 points.

Their qualification run included matches against Nigeria, Benin, Rwanda, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe.

Following the historic win, President Cyril Ramaphosa joined the celebrations, sharing a video of himself beaming with excitement as he applauded the team’s success.

“We are going to the 2026 FIFA World Cup! Well done to the entire @BafanaBafana team. As always, South Africa will be right behind you, supporting you all the way,” he captioned the video.

While many shared in the joy and praised the president’s enthusiasm, the video quickly sparked mixed reactions online.

Some users criticized Ramaphosa for celebrating sporting victories while the country still faces socio-economic challenges.

“So quick to acknowledge everything else but the problems in our country 😭,” one person commented.

Another added, “Oh, so you’re alive.”

However, others defended the president’s reaction, saying the moment was a national victory worth celebrating.

“Ramaphosa can now add Bafana Bafana’s World Cup to his belt, alongside the Springboks and Proteas victories, truly a proud moment for South Africa!” one user wrote.

Another disagreed, saying, “This is not your victory, Ramaphosa. This is Bafana Bafana’s victory. This is us, the people’s victory. This will never be your victory.”

We are going to the 2026 FIFA World Cup!

Well done to the entire @BafanaBafana team. As always, South Africa will be right behind you, supporting you all the way. pic.twitter.com/ksD0bsnpXL

— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) October 14, 2025