Story By Linda Ximba
Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams has paid an emotional tribute to head coach Hugo Broos after South Africa secured a historic place in the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time.
South Africa sealed their spot in the Last 32 with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Korea at the Estadio Monterrey in Mexico on Thursday. A crucial second-half goal from Thapelo Maseko ensured Bafana finished second in Group A and booked their place in the next round of the tournament.
The achievement marks a significant milestone for South African football, as Bafana Bafana have reached the World Cup knockout stages for the first time since making their tournament debut in 1998.
Speaking after the match, an emotional Williams praised Broos for transforming the national team and instilling belief in a squad that many had written off.
“We love the coach. What he has done for this team and for this country, I don’t even know how to put it into words,” Williams told FIFA. “He deserves a statue. He deserves the highest recognition one can give for the belief that he has shown in this team from day one.”
Williams revealed that Broos remained steadfast in his support for the players, even during difficult periods when criticism mounted and confidence was low.
“He always tells us that we can do it. When our backs are against the wall and people don’t believe in us, he is always there,” said the Bafana captain.
The Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper dedicated the victory to the Belgian mentor, saying the triumph belonged not only to the players and millions of South Africans but also to the coach who never stopped believing in them.
Bafana Bafana will now face co-hosts Canada in a highly anticipated Round of 32 clash at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on Sunday, 28 June.
Email: Linda@onenews.co.za
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