They came from all parts of South Africa to welcome the team that brought home the William Webb Ellis Cup – the Springboks. And they came singing and dancing, flying flags and wearing the green and gold.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang takes over the permanent role, although he was also not in the 18-man travelling squad for the match in Guimaraes and Hector Bellerin is likely to stand in instead.
Jorginho scored two penalties as Chelsea came roaring back from 4-1 down to draw 4-4 with nine-man Ajax in a Champions League classic on Tuesday, while holders Liverpool claimed a narrow victory and a stuttering Barcelona were held.
The 37-year-old, who became the first-ever women's Olympic boxing champion at London 2012 when she took the flyweight crown, said she was abandoning her hopes of winning a third gold next year in Tokyo.
Fans packed the arrival hall of OR Tambo International Airport, waiting for the Springboks to arrive home after winning the Rugby World Cup 2019.
Springboks captain Siya Kolisi said coach Rassie Erasmus motivated them throughout the tournament and the support from South Africans fuelled their drive.
Mapimpi, Am and Jantjes will be making their debuts for the Barbarians with 117-times capped Mtawarira his third.
Among the first players to land are Duane Vermeulen, Cheslin Kolbe and Makazole Mapimpi.
We can't tell if the Springboks are more excited to be home or if South Africans are happier seeing the Rugby World Cup champions return from Japan.
By Dr Jack & Curtis.
