PRETORIA, South Africa — South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has congratulated Canada on reaching the Round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup while celebrating Bafana Bafana’s historic campaign despite the team’s elimination from the tournament.
In a message shared on X, Ramaphosa praised both nations, acknowledging Canada’s progression to the knockout stage while expressing pride in South Africa’s achievement of reaching the expanded tournament’s last 32.
“Well done, @TeamCanada, on proceeding to the Round of 16 in the #FIFAWorldCup, with @BafanaBafana breathing down your necks,” Ramaphosa wrote.
South Africa exited the competition after finishing behind Canada in the race for a place in the knockout rounds at Los Angeles Stadium on June 28, 2026, in Inglewood, California.
However, Bafana Bafana made history by advancing to the last 32 for the first time, marking the country’s best-ever performance at a FIFA World Cup.
Ramaphosa credited head coach Hugo Broos for guiding the national team to the milestone, describing the campaign as a significant achievement for South African football.
“We remain justifiably proud of Bafana Bafana’s historic advancement to the last 32 of the world’s best under the transformative leadership of coach Hugo Broos,” he said.
The President also extended his best wishes to Canada as the North American nation continues its World Cup journey while serving as one of the tournament’s host countries.
“But, well done again, Canada, and we wish you well on the pitch and as co-hosts for the remainder of this thrilling competition,” Ramaphosa added.
South Africa’s performance at the expanded 48-team World Cup has been widely hailed as a landmark moment for the national team, with Bafana Bafana exceeding expectations and raising hopes for continued progress on the international stage.
