Bafana Bafana

two local Bafana Bafana supporters on the streets of Cape Town

A few weeks ago, World Cup Host Nation South Africa (Bafana Bafana) named their provisional 29 player squad. Coach Carlos Alberto Parreira listed only two white players, reserve goalkeeper Rowen Fernandez and defender Matthew Booth. This is in stark contrast to the World Cup winning rugby team that consisted almost exclusively of all white faces back in 1995.

The crowd expects, but it is clear South Africa will have a battle on their hands if they are to finish in the top two positions of their group to qualify for the second round. Recent victories against Jamaica and a nil- nil bore draw against North Korea haven’t inspired much confidence in the host nation. Expect heads to roll.

Meanwhile, all South Africans are fully behind Bafana Bafana, but realistic about their team’s capabilities. Most expect the team not to proceed beyond the group stage, with France and Mexico the more likely to progress further. A recent survey suggests that South Africans will switch their allegiances to tournament favourites, Brazil.


Cape Town is awash with noise and sporting fervour, from both locals and visiting supporters, and we haven’t even kicked off yet! The French and Uruguay supporters are here in force with their opening match kicking off in Cape Town on Friday.

There is a “Welcome Party” tomorrow in Cape Town with street parades and music from 2pm. It should be awesome.