Photo of Jade Rhode

Watch: Bafana Bafana receives warm welcome at OR Tambo International Airport

4 months By Jade Rhode

Members of the Bafana Bafana team have finally touched down in South Africa at OR Tambo International Airport on 2 July 2026 after making history at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The team received a heroes’ welcome as fans celebrated their achievement.

Also see: Cyril Ramaphosa praises Bafana Bafana after historic win

Before their arrival, a Bafana Bafana social media post encouraged fans to bring their flags, wear their jerseys, and show their love, which they surely did!

Bafana Bafana lands at OR Tambo International Airport

The national soccer team’s social media platforms also shared footage of squad members, including Belgian head coach Hugo Broos, entering the airport, adoring South Africans cheering them on, and the sound of instruments playing in the background. South African Police Service (SAPS) members lined the route, helping escort the team to safety.

Take a look at the warm welcome below:

Also see: Hugo Broos weighs future after Bafana Bafana’s World Cup elimination

How did Bafana Bafana make history?

For the first time, Bafana Bafana entered the knockout stage of the international soccer tournament after they beat South Korea 1-0 during the group stage, thanks to midfielder Thapelo Maseko.

The team then went on to the Round of 32, where they were unfortunately eliminated after Canada scored a goal in the 92nd minute.

Ronwen Williams thanks South Africans

While addressing South Africans after leaving the airport, captain Ronwen Williams thanked the nation for their support.

“We saw the love, the well wishes, the prayers, and you guys waking up in the middle of the night, singing, dancing, and celebrating.

“We just wanted to go out there and give our all for you guys. Thank you so much for what you guys have done for this team. You guys have united a country. Let us keep going as a team and as a country.”

Also see: Fans reject Pitso Mosimane as Hugo Broos’ potential Bafana Bafana successor

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