Ramaphosa celebrates 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification
South Africans are filled with pride following Bafana Bafana’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a feat the country has not experienced since it hosted the tournament in 2010.
The national team secured their place in the World Cup after a decisive 3-0 victory against Rwanda on Tuesday, finishing atop their group with a total of 18 points.
The qualification journey involved matches against competitors including Nigeria, Benin, Rwanda, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe.
After the significant win, President Cyril Ramaphosa took part in the celebrations by sharing a video of himself expressing joy as he applauded the team’s achievement.
“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 joined in the celebration and commended the president’s enthusiasm, the video also drew varied reactions online.
Some commenters expressed discontent regarding Ramaphosa’s celebration of sports achievements while the country continues to confront various socio-economic issues.
“So quick to acknowledge everything else but the problems in our country 😭,” remarked one individual.
Another user commented, “Oh, so you’re alive.”
Nevertheless, others defended the president’s response, highlighting that the occasion was a moment of national pride.
“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!” posted one user.
Conversely, another disagreed, stating, “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
