Pretoria - Sport and Recreation Minister Makhenkesi Stofile has urged the nation not to despair following Bafana Bafana's defeat this week.
Stofile, who was speaking at the International Football Village in Boksburg on Thursday, said Uruguay's 3-nil defeat against South Africa was a temporary setback. He also expressed his confidence in Bafana Bafana's ability to bounce back.
"No one else will support them if we give up on them just because of one loss. As patriots, it is upon us to show belief in our team so that they get motivated to want to fight for us until kingdom comes," said the minister.
He additionally congratulated all the teams for displaying high quality skills in the tournament, saying that it is good for football development.
Minister Stofile lauded Germany as the team of the moment having displayed tactical superiority. He also lauded Switzerland for beating Spain - a historically unthinkable deed.
He was also satisfied that South Africa had met all of FIFA's requirements particularly in the security sector.
The minister said he had noted the isolated criminal incidents, adding that the country has been vigilant.
In terms of payment to private security staff at the country's stadiums, he said he was appalled that they "are being paid peanuts."
"To him, this is clear exploitation of labour. He urged employers to assess the conditions under which their staff will be working before determining their wages," said his spokesperson Lerato Mogorosi. This after guards downed tools at some World Cup venues earlier this week
