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Bafana Bafana have clinched their spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) without even stepping onto the field. The South African men’s national team learned they had qualified while preparing for a crucial qualifier against Uganda, after an unexpected turn of events in Group K.
Sudan’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Congo Brazzaville in Juba on Thursday night secured the AFCON berths for both South Africa and Uganda. This result allowed both teams to secure qualification before Bafana Bafana’s scheduled qualifier in Kampala on Friday. The South African squad, now preparing to face Uganda in the iconic Mandela National Stadium, remains focused on their ultimate goal: finishing top of the group.
Coach Hugo Broos emphasized that qualification hasn’t lessened their competitive spirit. “We want to win the game, we want to end at the top of the group, and that means we have to beat Uganda,” said Broos. “This doesn’t change anything for us. We expect a full house, a lot of atmosphere in the stadium, which will be great motivation for the players. Let’s hope the best team wins today.”
Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams echoed Broos’ sentiments, expressing excitement about the opportunity to close the year on a high note. “We want to finish the year on a positive note. It has been a wonderful and successful year, and we’re building on that,” said Williams. “Some of our players have returned from injury, which is encouraging, and for those we’ve lost along the way, we’ll be playing on their behalf.”
The South African Football Association (SAFA) President, Dr. Danny Jordaan, congratulated the team on their achievement. “Congratulations to coach Hugo Broos, his technical and support staff, the players, and everyone contributing to the team. This is a magnificent feat, especially in a year where Bafana Bafana earned a bronze medal in Côte d’Ivoire. On behalf of the SAFA NEC, congratulations to the team,” he said.
With two games still to play in the qualifiers, including Tuesday’s match against Sudan in Cape Town, Bafana Bafana are keen to prove their strength and maintain their momentum.
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