🇿🇦 The Forgotten Warriors! What REALLY Happened to Bafana Bafana’s Class of ’92? Some Stories Will Shock You! 💔
The year was 1992.
After nearly three decades in exile, South Africa stepped back into the international football arena with a historic match against Cameroon at Kings Park Stadium in Durban.
That day marked the rebirth of Bafana Bafana—and the Class of ’92 became the foundation of the nation’s football legacy.
But more than 30 years later, fans are still asking: Where are they now?
1.Doctor Khumalo – The Face of a Generation
Arguably the most recognizable name from the squad, ‘16V’ Doctor Khumalo became the poster boy of Bafana Bafana’s return.
After a successful playing career, he moved into coaching and punditry, serving as assistant coach at Kaizer Chiefs and later taking roles in football development.
Today, he remains active in the media, offering analysis and insights on local football.
Stylish, smart, and still passionate about the game, Doctor hasn’t strayed far from the spotlight.
2.Lucas Radebe – From Soweto to the World
After impressing in that first game, Lucas Radebe went on to become a Leeds United legend and Bafana captain.
Known for his leadership and discipline, Radebe is now involved in charity work, football ambassadorship, and occasionally dabbles in sports administration.
Despite being linked to the SAFA presidency at one point, he’s mostly kept a low public profile in recent years—though fans still chant his name with pride.
3.Neil Tovey – The Iron Captain
Tovey captained South Africa during their famous AFCON 1996 victory but was also a core figure in 1992.
Post-retirement, he turned to coaching and football development.
In recent years, he served as SAFA’s Technical Director, overseeing youth structures.
Health issues slowed him down, but he remains a respected voice in the game.
4.Mark Fish – The Entertainer Turned Analyst
Known for his charisma on and off the field, Mark Fish transitioned smoothly into punditry and ambassadorial roles.
He’s been a regular face on SuperSport and a voice in various football campaigns.
Though not always without controversy, Fish has remained firmly in the public eye and continues to advocate for grassroots football.
5.Sizwe Motaung – A Tragic Loss
Motaung was one of the squad’s most promising defenders.
After playing in Europe for clubs like Tenerife, tragedy struck—he passed away in 2001 at just 31 years old due to a suspected HIV-related illness.
His story is a heartbreaking reminder of how fleeting the spotlight can be.
6.Phil Masinga– The Gentle Giant Remembered
Another icon lost too soon.
Phil “Chippa” Masinga scored the legendary goal that qualified South Africa for its first World Cup in 1998.
Post-retirement, he worked in football promotion and business.
Sadly, he died in 2019 after battling cancer, leaving behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.
7.John Moeti – The Silent Warrior
Midfield general John Moeti was known for his engine and composure.
He led a quieter life after retirement but remained involved in youth development.
Moeti tragically passed away in 2023, leaving behind a legacy of humility and service to the sport.
8.Augustine Makalakalane – From Midfield Maestro to Mentor
Makalakalane made history as one of the first South Africans to play in Switzerland.
After retiring, he became involved in coaching and women’s football.
However, his career was marred by controversy after allegations of misconduct during his time with the women’s national team.
Since then, he has largely disappeared from public view.
9.Themba Mnguni – Quiet But Steady
A lesser-known figure from the squad, Mnguni continued his playing career through the late ’90s before retiring into a quiet life.
He’s occasionally spotted at legends’ events but has avoided the limelight, living a more private existence.
10.Steve Crowley – The Forgotten Name
While not a household name, Crowley was part of the transitional era.
His post-football path is largely unknown, and very little public information is available about his current life.
He represents many of the ‘unsung’ heroes whose contributions remain etched in memory, even if their faces no longer appear in headlines.
11.Eric Tinkler – The Tactical Mastermind
After hanging up his boots, Eric Tinkler became one of South Africa’s most successful coaches.
He’s managed top clubs like Orlando Pirates, Cape Town City, and Maritzburg United.
Known for his tactical brain and no-nonsense approach, Tinkler remains a major player in South African football management.
12.Andre Arendse – Still Between the Posts (Kind Of)
One of the best goalkeepers the country has ever produced, Arendse moved into coaching and punditry after retiring.
He’s been a goalkeeping coach at SuperSport United and frequently appears as a football analyst.
His calm demeanor and sharp mind have kept him in the game in more ways than one.
While some of the 1992 legends have gone on to become coaches, analysts, and even administrators, others have faded into obscurity—or tragically passed on.
Their journeys reflect the highs and lows of professional football, especially in a country still grappling with sporting development, legacy, and recognition.
But make no mistake: the Class of ’92 changed everything.
They were the bridge between apartheid-era isolation and a hopeful, united South African future.
And no matter where they are now—whether behind a microphone, in a boardroom, or resting in peace—their legacy remains untouchable.
They were more than players.
They were pioneers.
And they will never be forgotten.
