Extra Time: Hugo Broos needs to understand that attacking his players in public can destroy their confidence, argues Michael Madyira.
Bafana Bafana have just completed an international outing in which they took their fans on
an emotional roller coaster ride.
After an underwhelming 1-1 draw against Uefa punching bags Andorra last Thursday, South Africa rose to a much improved 3-3 draw with Algeria before a biased crowd rooting for the North Africans.
Although they twice surrendered their lead to allow the Desert Foxes to come back, it was a refreshing performance by Bafana.
It made most people forget about the impotent attack that struggled up front against Andorra.
Themba Zwane turned up to show his experience with a brace while Sekhukhune United midfielder Elias Mokwana seized his chance to score his second Bafana goal in as many matches.
But the team’s attacking frailties against Andorra still lingered and coach Hugo Broos, just like the fans, had every right to be angry.
However, publicly attacking his forwards is just not on.
Yes, it’s good to whip your players into line, it’s for the best. You can be hard on them in the dressing room. That’s allowed.
But slamming your men in public can destroy their confidence.
Already before this latest camp, Broos criticised Cape Town City forward Khanyisa Mayo, saying that the 25-year-old is not international material and cannot lead Bafana’s attack.
But surprisingly, Mayo was on the plane to Algeria after being initially excluded from the provisional squad.
How does Mayo feel knowing that he is playing for a coach who does not believe in him?
Yes, he could be motivated to prove the Belgian wrong, but being publicly criticised like that is not always helpful.
Pictured above: Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos with players at training.
Image source: Bafana Bafana
