Bafana brings joy to Nelson Mandela Hospital
Bafana Bafana players visited the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital in Johannesburg ahead of their game against Mali in the Nelson Mandela Challenge on Sunday.
Striker Kermit Erasmus believes the visit to the hospital was a good way for the team to start the week.
“It is a great thing that we are here, it’s a good way to start the week and hopefully we can end it well at the end of the weekend,” says Erasmus.
Midfielder Lebogang Phiri said Madiba paved a way for many young South Africans and that everywhere he travels, South Africans are idolized because his legacy.
“And going forward I think we should continue, praising his name and continue his legacy,” says Phiri.
Phiri said he would like to go back to the hospital and give more to the children.
“It is something that we as football athletes, we should keep on supporting and taking part in such visits and ensure that children have joy and can enjoy every single moment seeing their stars and football players coming to give back.”
Chief Executive Officer of the Nelson Mandela Children's Fund Sibongile Mkhabela said the visit by the players brings great excitement.
“The feel very affirmed to have important people coming to greet them, the people they look up to, their own icons. And knowing that is the cause of keeping us running.”