National Sports Minister Calls Out Bafana Bafana: It's Time For Results
- Sports minister Gayton McKenzie demands results from Bafana Bafana following their disappointing 2-2 draw with Uganda on September 6, 2024.
- McKenzie has set two clear goals for SAFA: qualify for the World Cup and the African Cup of Nations. He insists on measurable outcomes akin to the success of SA Rugby.
- Local sports fans rally behind McKenzie on social media, applauding his bold stance against the current leadership of South African football.
In a bold move, national sports minister Gayton McKenzie has taken aim at SAFA president Danny Jordaan, setting two firm deadlines for the organization to deliver results. The minister is unapologetically vocal about his dissatisfaction with the current state of South African football, urging the association to rise to the level of excellence demonstrated by the Springboks.
The minister’s patience is wearing thin, especially after Bafana Bafana's underwhelming performance in their recent 2-2 draw against Uganda. This result was far from the strong start fans had hoped for in the Afcon qualification journey. McKenzie is clear: it’s time for action, not just words. He wants to see tangible progress that mirrors the success of other national sports teams.
McKenzie’s message is clear: it’s time for SAFA to step up. His frustration is palpable, and he’s not shy about expressing it. In a recent video posted on Twitter (X) by journalist Lorenz Kohler, McKenzie made his position crystal clear.
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McKenzie Lays Down the Law for SAFA
Check out McKenzie’s fiery comments about SAFA in the video below:
In the video, McKenzie doesn’t mince words. He explains that his confidence lies with rugby, where results speak for themselves. He challenges SAFA to follow suit, stating:
“I don’t have full confidence [in SAFA]; I have full confidence in rugby because confidence isn’t built on talk—it’s built on results. The rugby results are there for everyone to see, but soccer? Not so much. I’ve given SAFA two clear goals: qualify for the World Cup and the African Cup of Nations. I’m supporting them now, but I can’t keep supporting them forever. There needs to be action.”
Social Media Reacts: Fans Back McKenzie
The sports minister’s candid remarks have struck a chord with local sports fans, who have taken to social media to voice their support. McKenzie has already won fans over by helping secure broadcasting rights for the Springboks on SABC, a move that resonated deeply with rugby enthusiasts. Now, he’s turning his attention to football, and people are taking notice.
Ntodeni Khorommbi warns McKenzie to tread carefully, noting that FIFA frowns upon government interference in football. While the sentiment is valid, many fans feel that something needs to change. Ntxhilo Shan echoes the sentiment of many when he declares, “That’s my minister for you.”
Sizwe Mlaba admires McKenzie’s boldness, saying, “This minister is something else. We’ve been waiting for someone like him who speaks without fear or favor.”
Khanya Afrika calls for Danny Jordaan to step down, stating, “True, that man has overstayed his welcome.”
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Nti Van der Sibeko goes further, advocating for broader changes within the Premier Soccer League (PSL). He suggests, “The chairman should retire too, and let new people bring fresh ideas to improve the game we all love.”
McKenzie Backs 'Nigerian' Track Star Udeme Okon
In a related development, national sports minister Gayton McKenzie praised young track star Udeme Okon, calling him a “golden boy” after his triumph at the U20 World Championships. Despite some criticism from local fans due to his Nigerian roots, McKenzie stands firmly behind the 19-year-old athlete, who won gold in the 400m event in Peru. McKenzie’s support highlights his commitment to nurturing talent across all sports disciplines, regardless of background.
As McKenzie continues to push for change in South African sports, his leadership style is sparking conversations and driving action. Whether it’s demanding results from Bafana Bafana or celebrating the achievements of young athletes like Udeme Okon, the minister is making waves—and fans are taking notice.
