Bafana Bafana received a mariachi band welcome in Mexico after visa-related travel delays, impacting their preparation for the FIFA World Cup opening game on June 11, as they face challenges in Group A against Mexico, Korea Republic, and Czechia. Picture: Itumeleng English/Independent Newspapers
Image: Itumeleng English/Independent Newspapers
Following their delayed arrival for the Fifa World Cup due to visa issues, Bafana Bafana were finally seen arriving at their team hotel in Pachuca, about 90km north of Mexico City, on Tuesday.
As they entered the building from the team bus, a mariachi band played traditional Mexican music to welcome the side.
The players did not seem overly enthusiastic on their arrival despite the warm welcome from the band— which is also understandable given the delays on their journey.
There is precious little time left before Bafana will be involved in the opening game of the tournament on June 11, and the delay of one day in their travel will almost certainly affect their preparation.
A week ago at the final squad announcement for the tournament, SA President Cyril Ramaphosa promised South Africa a public holiday if his troops won the FIFA. “I will be there when you lift the trophy on July 19, and I will gladly declare it a public holiday,” Ramaphosa said. “So, South Africans, you can be sure that another unexpected holiday is coming.”
Drawn in Group A alongside co-hosts Mexico, Korea Republic, and Czechia, they will have their work cut out to finish in the top two to automatically advance. They may have to rely on being one of the eight best third-placed finishers who will also book a ticket to the next round.
However, finishing bottom of their group is an all-too-real possibility, and despite this tournament being the first Fifa World Cup South Africa has qualified for since the 2002 edition (2010 they gained automatic entry as hosts).