Monday, June 10, 2013

Minister Mbalula, SAFA President congratulate Bafana Bafana on victory over CAR

South African Minister of Sport and Recreation, The Honourable Fikile Mbalula, was among the first people to send his congratulations to Bafana Bafana following their victory over the Central African Republic (CAR) in a Brazil 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

Bafana Bafana defeated CAR 3-0 with goals from Bernard Parker, Siphiwe Tshabalala and Katlego Mashego.

Minister Mbalula said the boys had done the country proud.

“Congratulations to the boys, they really did us proud,” he said in a short message relayed to the team in Cameroon.

SAFA President, Kirsten Nematandani says the win keeps Bafana Bafana firmly on track for qualification.

“The victory augurs very well for our hopes, dreams and wishes of going to Brazil in 2014. We have five steps to follow, meaning winning our next five games. We have dealt with one (CAR) now we are left with four (Ethiopia, Botswana and the home and away play-offs) which translates to 360 minutes of play. So far everything has worked according to plan. What makes the victory even sweeter is that we won by such a big margin away from home,” said Nematandani.

“I would like to say congratulations to Gordon and the boys, they did not disappoint. They hoisted the country’s flag high under difficult circumstances. We should also thank the people of Cameroon for their hospitality. And last, but not least, our gratitude goes to our people back home for their unwavering support for the national team, and for standing by the team. I hope this will inspire the boys even more in our next difficult match against Ethiopia.”

Nematandani also wished Madiba a speedy recovery from hospital.

“May the good Lord give him the strength he needs, we will always look up to him as he is an inspiration not just to our nation, but to the whole world. On behalf of the South African Football Association, I would like to wish him a speedy recovery so he can continue to inspire all nations,” concluded Nematandani.

-  SAFA

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