Bafana return to jubilant scenes in SA after historic World Cup adventure

A festive atmosphere engulfed OR Tambo International Airport as thousands of Bafana Bafana supporters turned out to welcome their heroes home from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The arrivals hall became a sea of green and gold, with South African flags waving, vuvuzelas blaring and fans singing long before Hugo Broos and his squad emerged from the arrivals section.

Despite the long wait, as Bafana landed just after 05:00, the mood remained celebratory for a team that had given the country one of its proudest moments on football’s biggest stage.

Captain Ronwen Williams was among the first to acknowledge the unwavering support the players received throughout the tournament.

“Thank you so much for the support. We saw when you guys supporting us in the early hours of the morning,” Williams said.

Although Bafana’s historic campaign ended with a heartbreaking Round of 32 defeat to Canada, they returned home having rewritten the record books.

By fighting their way out of Group A, South Africa reached the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time, transforming what began with defeat to Mexico into a tournament that will be remembered for generations.

An emotional Broos also thanked the supporters, insisting the team’s achievement belonged to the entire nation.

“It’s an emotional day, but we thank you for your support because without the fans, it would have never happened,” Broos said.

The celebrations were echoed by Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie, who used the occasion to call for the introduction of video assistant referee (VAR) technology in South African football.

“We don’t want stories now, SAFA. I’ve given you the money! We want to see VAR!” McKenzie said as he welcomed the squad home.

McKenzie also paid tribute to Broos for