There is proof that Bafana Bafana pride extends beyond South African borders, as a young Mexican fan excitedly approached the team for autographs. The boy seemed to be the only fan waiting outside the team’s home for the tournament, the Camino Real Pachuca, in Pachuca.
Also see: Bafana Bafana team welcomed with mariachi band in Mexico
Young Mexican fan meets Bafana Bafana
In one of the TV Azteca Deportes videos posted on X, the young boy held the South African flag and a green poster, which read, “Bafana Bafana! They sign my World Cup album.”
He also performed the popular dance move made famous by former Bafana Bafana squad member Simphiwe Tshabalala when he scored the first goal at the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
His actions caught the attention of head coach Hugo Broos, who gifted him a national team jersey. If that wasn’t enough to excite the fan, Bafana’s captain, Ronwen Williams, and the rest of the squad lined up to sign his new jersey and take pictures with him.
While the video’s audio is in Spanish, it is clear to understand the absolute pure joy the boy felt.
🇲🇽 | Un niño esperó con ilusión la llegada de la Selección de Sudáfrica. Los jugadores respondieron regalándole una camiseta, le firmaron su álbum e hicieron fila para tomarse una foto con él, uno por uno.
Un momento increíble que le dejará un recuerdo para toda la vida. 🥹 pic.twitter.com/MnWSkXFhVG
— Piojismo (@Piojismo1906) June 3, 2026
Also see: Essential tips for Bafana Bafana fans going to the World Cup
Mexican fan’s excitement warms hearts
Many people online applauded the South African team for their humility and noted that the boy would forever cherish such an unforgettable memory.
“This young Mexican boy will never forget this. This is what football is all about,” commented @Geoffrey87Lea.
@manufutbolcoach told the public, “They have already won the affection of the entire world. Kindness and generosity do not improve upon them, nor does the best and most studied marketing campaign.”
An impressed @glbgerardo said, “That coach is a legend. Humility is the key to success.”
South Africa is scheduled to face Mexico on Thursday, 11 June 2026 at 9pm in the opening match for the FIFA World Cup.
Also see: South Africans push for ‘Bafana Fridays’ ahead of FIFA World Cup
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