Outspoken South Africa’s Sports, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie is in the news again as he defended the current crop of Bafana Bafana players.

Bafana Bafana are out in North America representing the country in the FIFA World Cup, where they are in Group A with co-hosts Mexico, Czech Republic and South Korea.

They need a win against South Korea on Thursday to reach the round of 32 of the tournament. Bafana Bafana lost the first match 2-0 to Mexico and drew 1-1 with Czech Republic in Atlanta, USA.

McKenzie says some former professional players have no faith in Bafana Bafana. Without mentioning any names, McKenzie reckons Bafana Bafana may surprise many by reaching the knockout phase for the first time in history.

“In South Africa you have some ex players that never played on this level busy hurling insults at Bafana Bafana,” said McKenzie on social platform X.

“(Former) Players, breathe and restrain yourself please. Our boys will shame you by advancing to the next round.”

The match will kick off at 3 AM South African time on Thursday.