The South African street soccer team are on their way to Brazil after Western Cape minister for social development Patricia de Lille secured them sponsors.
“I’m very happy that they were able to leave,” said De Lille after meeting the team at OR Tambo International Airport.
The team left Cape Town International Airport on Saturday morning wearing their official South African colours and will now take their place among the 63 nations at the tournament.
“Our colours show our pride and it represents us as a national team,” said Lukanyo Mjoka (24) as he waited to check-in with his teammates.
Last year the team did not wear official colours due to insufficient funds. Despite this, the squad returned with the Milan City Cup and were ranked 17th in the world.
“Thank you to the lovely people who came on board on time,” said Vusumzi Shushu (27) in Cape Town.
“It would be nice to bring the cup home, especially after the World Cup and show Bafana Bafana,” said Shushu.
Celebrations continued at the Yeoville Road Field pitch in Gardens, Cape Town, where the team posed for a photograph.
“They’re so happy. They weren’t happy before. Now they’re happy,” said Gerald Jacobs, project manager for youth development at the Mamelani Projects. Four of the players are assisted by the organisation.
Linzi Thomas from MylifE, which are assisting three players on the team, and Jacobs, have supported during their preparations for the tournament.
“We did it together for the benefit of the youngsters,” said Thomas.
Two other organisations, Bright lights and Beth Uriel, have also sponsored players.
“We need to see national and provincial government getting involved … Safa and soccer clubs that have the expertise to train the boys in coaching and mentorship,” said Thomas.
“We certainly have to speak to Safa when they come back from Brazil and see if they can integrate them into their youth development programs,” said De Lille.
“For us to improve Bafana Bafana we need to bring in young talents from the streets and help those at risk.”