South Africa’s base for the FIFA World Cup is in Pachuca, Mexico, and the squad arrived slightly late this week, receiving a warm welcome, according to TVC Deportes. The most notable reception came from a lone young supporter who waited at the team hotel on Wednesday.
According to TVC Deportes, the boy appeared to be the only fan on hand and was treated to a series of interactions with the national squad. Players from the South African team signed his green jersey one by one, added autographs to his World Cup album and posed for photographs with him.
The report noted that several of the side’s higher-profile players formed part of the welcome, with images showing them lining up to sign items and take selfies. TVC Deportes highlighted a small wave from Mbekezeli Mbokazi during the encounter.
South Africa head coach Hugo Broos also took part, presenting the youngster with a new Bafana away jersey after the boy arrived at the hotel wearing a t-shirt, TVC Deportes said. The gift preceded further moments between the player group and the supporter.
As a final touch to the visit, the report said the boy was taught a new handshake and how to say “shap.” TVC Deportes explained that “shap” means “sharp,” used in contexts such as “good job,” “well done,” or “nice one.”
