Bafana Bafana Arrive Home at OR Tambo International to Crowd of Political Supporters, Videos

• Bafana Bafana touched down in Johannesburg before sunrise on Valentine's Day
• The arrivals terminal featured several dignitaries and prominent political figures
• South Africa are celebrating their first bronze medal finish at AFCON since 2000

The final punctuation mark has been placed on South Africa's AFCON 2023 story.

Bafana Bafana landed back in Johannesburg at OR Tambo International to an arrivals terminal teeming with sound and colour as the heroes were welcomed home.

The pre-crack of dawn arrival time may have proved too early for fringe fans, but many could not resist the opportunity to get in front of the cameras.

First out the sliding glass doors was Ronwen Williams, followed by Hugo Broos. The pair were greeted by a line of politicians, beginning with Minister of Sports, Arts and Recreation, Zizi Kodwa.

AFCON 2023: Hugo Broos has nation believing as Evidence Makgopa shines and Teboho Mokoena hammers home winner

Football

Former Moroka Swallows chairman and current Premier of Gauteng, Panyaza Lesufi, was next in line, flanked by SAFA President, Danny Jordaan, and Banyana Banyana coach, Desiree Ellis.

Further down the line was EFF leader, Julius Malema and senior members from his party. Malema would later score himself a seat on stage alongside the AFCON bronze medalists for a photo opportunity.

Behind the barricades, the forecourt of the terminal comprised mainly of a sea of red as members of the political party outnumbered the average football fan.

The crowd was significantly smaller than the Springboks' Rugby World Cup victory parade and smaller even than Dricus du Plessis' arrival home after winning the EFC Middleweight championship.

It has long been a tradition to welcome home South Africa's sporting heroes with fervent support, as the nation acknowledges the importance of adding to the rich list of achievements.

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Football

With the Africa Cup of Nations trip considered a success, Bafana Bafana will reassemble in June to resume their quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Relive the Springboks' 2023 homecoming

Sports Brief also previously reported on the Springboks' Rugby World Cup homecoming in Johannesburg.

OR Tambo International resembled a carnival of colour as South Africans of all creeds celebrated their win.

Supporters shared their stories and personal motivations about why they had travelled across the province.