For decades, South African football supporters have dreamed of seeing Bafana Bafana compete on the world’s biggest stage.
Now, with a place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 secured, that dream is becoming reality.
Standing in their way on Sunday is Canada — a nation ranked higher and widely viewed as favourites to progress. Yet there is a growing belief that Bafana Bafana should not be intimidated by the challenge ahead.
After all, few expected Hugo Broos’ men to reach this stage of the tournament.
South Africa’s World Cup campaign began with a disappointing defeat to Mexico, a result that left many fearing an early exit. Instead, Bafana responded with resilience, discipline and belief.
A hard-fought draw against Czechia kept their hopes alive before a historic victory over South Korea secured qualification for the knockout rounds and sent shockwaves through the tournament.
More importantly, South Africa have improved with every match.
The defensive frailties exposed against Mexico have gradually disappeared, while the team has grown in confidence and organisation. Against South Korea, Bafana demonstrated exactly why they deserve to be among the final 32 teams, frustrating their opponents before striking decisively when opportunities arose.
Canada will undoubtedly present a different challenge.
The North Americans possess pace, physicality and greater experience at this level. However, knockout football often rewards teams that are difficult to break down and willing to seize their moment when it arrives.
That is precisely how South Africa have reached this stage.
The pressure will also be very different on Sunday. Canada are expected to progress. Bafana Bafana are not.
That could work in South Africa’s favour.
With little to lose and everything to gain, Broos’ side can approach the match with freedom and confidence, knowing they have already exceeded many pre-tournament expectations.
The dream of reaching the Round of 16 may still be a difficult one, but it is no longer unrealistic.
One victory is all that separates Bafana Bafana from another piece of football history.
And if this World Cup has taught us anything, it is that writing off South Africa would be a mistake.