Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie set aside earlier criticism to publicly welcome Bafana Bafana home following their disappointing exit from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, offering words of encouragement as the team returned to South Africa on Wednesday.
The national side arrived back home after their Afcon journey came to a painful end on Sunday, when they suffered a 2–1 defeat to Cameroon. The loss dashed hopes of progressing further in the tournament and sparked widespread disappointment among supporters, many of whom felt the team had done enough to deserve a better outcome.
McKenzie himself was among those who reacted strongly in the immediate aftermath of the defeat. He had openly voiced frustration over missed opportunities during the match, suggesting that lapses in finishing ultimately cost Bafana Bafana a place in the next round. His comments drew attention, with some fans agreeing with his assessment, while others felt the criticism was too harsh given the pressure of tournament football.
However, as the team touched down back home, the minister adopted a notably different tone. Putting criticism aside, McKenzie made his way to the airport to personally welcome the squad, a gesture that signalled unity and support despite the heartbreak of elimination.
Taking to social media, McKenzie shared a video showing him greeting head coach Hugo Broos, players and members of the technical staff. In the footage, he can be seen shaking hands, exchanging brief conversations and offering words of encouragement to a visibly disappointed group.
“Our boys are gutted. Not succeeding is the best lesson,” McKenzie wrote in a post on X.
“Rise above your own disappointment, boys. We love you and have full hope that Mexico will be set alight by you. True South Africans are behind you all the way. I’m glad I came to welcome you this morning.”
His reference to Mexico pointed to the bigger picture ahead, as Bafana Bafana continue preparations toward future international commitments, including World Cup-related campaigns. The message suggested that, while Afcon 2025 ended in disappointment, the team’s journey is far from over.
McKenzie’s airport appearance and supportive message drew mixed reactions online. Some users praised him for demonstrating leadership, arguing that it was important for a government official to stand with the team during difficult moments, not only when results are positive. Supporters of this view said the welcome sent a powerful message to players that their efforts were still valued.
Others, however, questioned the contrast between his earlier criticism and his show of support at the airport. Critics suggested that public figures should maintain consistency, especially when addressing national teams that already face immense pressure from fans and media scrutiny.
Despite the differing opinions, many football supporters welcomed the shift toward encouragement, noting that the players were clearly devastated by the outcome and needed backing rather than further criticism. Several fans pointed out that Bafana Bafana showed moments of promise during the tournament and that the experience could prove valuable in the long run.
With Afcon 2025 now behind them, attention will turn to what lies ahead for the national team. The technical staff and players are expected to regroup, reflect on lessons learned and refocus on upcoming fixtures, particularly World Cup commitments that will demand consistency and mental resilience.
For Bafana Bafana, the return home marked the end of a difficult chapter, but also the beginning of renewed preparation. For McKenzie, the moment underscored a balance between accountability and support — a reminder that while criticism may follow defeat, unity remains crucial as the team looks toward the future.
Our Boys are gutted, not succeeding is the best lesson, rise above your own disappointment Boys, We love you and have full hope that Mexico will be set alight by you. True South Africans are behind you all the way. I’m glad I came to welcome you this morning 🥹⚽️❤️🤛 pic.twitter.com/03yspsyHnt
— Gayton McKenzie (@GaytonMcK) January 7, 2026
