South Africa's Sports Minister Denies Bafana Bafana Bonus Dispute Ahead of 2025 AFCON

South Africa's Sports Minister, Gayton McKenzie, has emphatically denied claims of a bonus dispute within the Bafana Bafana squad, asserting that the team is fully concentrated on their mission to win the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time in 29 years.

The national team departed for Morocco on Wednesday night from OR Tambo International Airport, following a training camp at Pretoria’s High Performance Centre.

Their objective is clear: to emulate the legendary 1996 squad and bring the continental trophy back to South Africa.

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Despite what appeared to be a smooth preparation period, rumours of internal issues began to surface after comments from 1996 AFCON winner Doctor Khumalo.

Speaking on SABC Sport after South Africa's 1-0 friendly victory against Ghana, the football icon suggested there was underlying tension.

"I heard via the grapevine the camp is not okay," Khumalo said. "They are still fighting for something. I hope and wish when they get there, everything is resolved."

Adding to the concerns, team captain Ronwen Williams described the pre-tournament preparations as "strange and unusual," citing the staggered arrival of players into the camp.

Although Ronwen Williams insisted the team had prepared well, his comments fueled public anxiety about the squad's unity.

As speculation of a disagreement between the players and the South African Football Association (SAFA) over bonuses intensified, Minister McKenzie addressed the issue directly through official statements and social media.

"We’re seeing lots of unnecessary, incorrect speculation about AFCON bonuses," McKenzie declared. "Player bonuses have been agreed already, separately from what we as government are giving."

The Minister called on the public to disregard the "noise" and focus on supporting the team. "Right now, all we need is to rally behind the players and the team. We’re winning this cup," he added.

Bafana Bafana heads into the 2025 AFCON carrying the weight of national expectation. The team has not reached the pinnacle of African football since their historic victory on home soil.

With the bonus issue now officially settled and a recent win over Ghana providing a confidence boost, Hugo Broos and his squad arrive in Morocco ready to fight for the title.