Minister Kodwa To Bafana: 'You Are Our Heroes'

Minister of Sport, Arts & Culture, Zizi Kodwa, told the Bafana Bafana players why they have inspired South Africans during their run to the AFCON semi-finals. Check it out!

What's the story?

Minister Zizi Kodwa made his second trip to the Ivory Coast to cheer on Bafana Bafana in their Africa Cup of Nations semi-final match against Nigeria.

Just like he did after the Mali loss, Minister Kodwa spoke to the Bafana players in the change room, giving them words of encouragement. 

Read: Nigerian Teacher Gets Guard Of Honour From His SA Class 

Let's take a closer look at what the Minister had to say...

Zizi Kodwa's encouraging words for Bafana

Bafana Bafana's efforts at this year's Africa Cup of Nations have left the country immensely proud for the first time in a while, with Minister Kodwa encouraging the players after their defeat to Nigeria.

Hugo Broos' men lost 4-2 on penalties, with a tense 1-1 after extra time, and an unfortunate red card for defender Grant Kekana. 

The Minister, who gave the Bafana stars tactical advice following their Group E opening loss to Mali, had words of affirmation to share with the players this time around.

"We are proud of you, as a country, and we are looking forward to welcoming you [home]. The President will welcome you in the way that we always welcome our national teams. You are our heroes, you really fought..." says Minister Kodwa, who added:

"I want to thank you, for the sacrifices you've made on behalf of this country. You left your families, you came to this country, I heard none of you complain about the conditions, but I'm sure you're not complaining about it.

"You are and inspiration to many young people, I said it last time, you are an inspiration to many young people from the areas of Mdantsane, Soweto, and Mamelodi, that they too, can find themselves at this stage, where you are playing," added the Minister.

"I look forward to welcoming you on behalf of the country when you arrive back home. Well done, you have done extremely well to get where we are. I’m sure the Doubting Thomases back home never expected you to be here after the loss to Mali. Congratulations, and thank you very much, guys," he concluded.

Watch the full speech below:

Have your say on Minister Zizi Kodwa's words for the Bafana players...

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