Bafana Bafana Legend Benni McCarthy Slams SAFA Over Payment Scandal in Bittersweet AFCON Journey

Bafana Bafana legend Benni McCarthy. (Credit: Imago)

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Bafana Bafana legend Benni McCarthy. (Credit: Imago)

Bafana Bafana Legend Benni McCarthy Slams SAFA Over Payment Scandal in Bittersweet AFCON Journey

Stephen Awino 10:00 - 23.05.2025

Benni McCarthy has alleged tha SAFA failed to pay South Africa’s U-20 squad after the 1997 AFCON.

Bafana Bafana legend Benni McCarthy has alleged that the South African Football Association (SAFA) failed to compensate the national U-20 squad following their participation in the 1997 U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

McCarthy, who went on to become one of South Africa’s most celebrated footballers and all -time top scorer, took to social media to reflect on the U20 AFCON journey.

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What Happened?

Benni McCarthy
Bafana Bafana legend Benni McCarthy. (Credit: Imago)

Responding to a nostalgic post from former teammate Stanton Fredericks, McCarthy reminisced about the bittersweet journey.

“Wow, that really was the beginning of our life-changing journey indeed Stigaro (Stanton Fredericks), plus SAFA ran away without paying us our money. Never will I forget," wrote McCarthy.

"Remember how they dodged us!" Fredericks wrote back.

The message, equal parts humorous and bitter, has struck a chord with many in the South African football fraternity.

Bafana Bafana's Journey at the 1997 U-20 AFCON

The 1997 edition of the Africa U-20 Cup of Nations, held in Morocco, was a turning point for many young South African players.

The Amajita's spirited performance helped launch the careers of future national team stars, including McCarthy himself.

However, according to McCarthy’s account, the rewards promised by SAFA, likely in the form of allowances or performance bonuses, were never fulfilled.

Following McCarthy’s revelation, SAFA is yet to issue any response to the claim.