Legendary Bafana Bafana star Doctor Khumalo has offered a glimpse into the team’s past struggles during away matches, revealing that players were sometimes housed in hotels where they were intentionally distracted by prostitutes.
Khumalo highlighted the crucial role sponsors play in alleviating the financial burden on SAFA. He praised modern sponsors for their part in improving the national team’s preparations, a factor that has contributed to Bafana’s recent success.
With the team’s incredible run attracting several new sponsors, he emphasised how far the team has progressed, not just on the field, but also in the professional support and preparation they now receive.
Bafana edged closer to qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup when they collected four points from their September qualifiers. They beat Lesotho 3-0 and drew 1-1 with Nigeria, with two more qualifiers set for October.
KHUMALO DETAILS TOUGH CONDITIONS BAFANA BAFANA PLAYED UNDER
“We went to DR Congo, and the kind of hotel that we were staying in had those ladies who work at night. And they were calling us, ‘Mandela, come here,’” said the Kaizer Chiefs legend.
“There are certain things that you guys don’t know. What does it take for the national team to play away?”
Khumalo added that in the past, players faced inadequate meals, disorganised travel arrangements, and psychological tactics aimed at destabilising them before crucial games.
“Against Zimbabwe, we were there seven days before the game. Unfortunately, 60% of the boys were unable to eat their food. We had to resort to rolls and tea. Instead of us getting a jet to play, we had to use an SAA flight seven days before kickoff.”
Recently, Khumalo noted that Bafana have travelled to matches by private jet, benefiting from improved travel, accommodation, and preparation.
He also recalled chaotic match days, where dressing rooms were being painted just minutes before kickoff and passport checks were conducted an hour before the game.
“They painted the dressing room at quarter to two. And they can’t check it outside. We have to be inside. It actually built character out of us because we became stronger. And that’s when, probably, we even managed to win 1996.”
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