Rory Petzer celebrates Bafana Bafana's against-all-odds triumph after points deduction

Award-winning comedian Rory Petzer praised Bafana Bafana’s achievement in reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite a major setback during qualifying.

The team secured their spot with a 3-0 win over Rwanda at Mbombela Stadium, with goals from Thalente Mbatha, Oswin Appollis and Evidence Makgopa.

This marks South Africa's first return to the World Cup finals since hosting the tournament in 2010. 

Petzer took to X to celebrate the team’s success, writing: “CHAMPIONS! Pack your bags, apply for your visas. We are going to the 2026 FIFA World Cup."

"I am in tears here. Thank you, Bafana Bafana. Thank you, Nigeria. Thank you, South Africa. To do this with 3 points deducted is wild. I love us so much.”

Earlier in the campaign, Bafana Bafana faced a three-point deduction after fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in a match against Lesotho.

Mokoena had accumulated two yellow cards and was suspended, but played in the game, leading to the forfeiture of the match and a fine for the South African Football Association. 

Key injuries, inconsistent early performances and intense competition from other strong African teams for limited World Cup spots complicated their qualification journey. 

Despite these obstacles, the team maintained determination and cohesion, turning the final matches into must-win situations. 

The 3-0 victory over Rwanda demonstrated their ability to perform under pressure and highlighted the emergence of young talent capable of competing on the international stage.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, marks an expanded tournament with 48 teams, allowing South Africa to compete on a larger stage.

For the national team, qualification represents a chance to showcase their growth and talent while re-establishing themselves as a competitive force in African football.

Participation in the tournament will provide players with exposure, experience and the opportunity to test themselves against some of the best teams in the world.

For South Africa as a nation, this victory carries significance beyond sport. The team’s qualification has united fans across the country, inspiring pride and optimism.

It demonstrates the resilience and potential of South African football, showing that obstacles can be overcome with focus, teamwork and perseverance.