Bafana Bafana’s journey to the 1998 FIFA World Cup was as much a story of identity as it was of football. Just four years after the end of apartheid, Bafana Bafana had won the Africa Cup of Nations on home soil in 1996 under beloved coach Clive Barker – and World Cup qualification followed naturally from that golden era.
Barker guided South Africa through CAF qualifying before departing. Frenchman Philippe Troussier was appointed in January 1998 – just months before the tournament – in an appointment that proved controversial. His difficult relationship with several senior players, most notably Benni McCarthy, cast a shadow over what should have been a joyous debut.
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South Africa were drawn in Group C alongside hosts France, Denmark and Saudi Arabia.
France 3-0 South Africa – Marseille, 12 June
A daunting opener against the eventual champions. Bafana held firm until the final 15 minutes before France pulled away through Christophe Dugarry, a Pierre Issa own goal and a late Thierry Henry strike.
South Africa 1-1 Denmark – Toulouse, 18 June
Bafana’s finest moment. Allan Nielsen gave Denmark an early lead before a 20-year-old Benni McCarthy equalised to earn South Africa their first ever World Cup point.
South Africa 2-2 Saudi Arabia – Paris, 24 June
Shaun Bartlett gave Bafana the lead before Saudi Arabia turned the game around with two penalties. Bartlett’s dramatic stoppage-time equaliser rescued a point and ended South Africa’s debut campaign on a high.
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South Africa finished third in Group C – eliminated but with heads held high. Lucas Radebe captained with distinction. McCarthy and Bartlett announced themselves to the world.
Photo: Simon Bruty/Anychance/Getty Images
