- Broos believes Bafana have transformed into a top side after finishing third at the last Afcon and qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.
- The coach says every match matters, including Saturday’s friendly against Zambia in Gqeberha, as Bafana push to stay in Africa’s top ten.
Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos says his team have outgrown the underdog label and are ready to compete with Africa’s best at the next Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in Morocco.
“Two years ago we were just a team. Now we are the real South Africa,” said Broos ahead of Bafana’s friendly against Zambia on Saturday.
Bafana stunned many when they finished third at the last Afcon in Ivory Coast – their best result in two decades.
Since then, Broos has guided the team to qualify for the 2026 Fifa World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico.
But he admits success brings new challenges. “Our opponents will prepare for us differently now,” said Broos. “If we can step up at Afcon and get the same results, it will show how far we’ve come.”
He said Saturday’s friendly in Gqeberha should be treated like a competitive fixture. “For me, friendlies don’t exist. Every game we play to win,” he said.
Broos had considered leaving players from Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates with their clubs because of a busy schedule but decided to include them.
“We want to win. It’s important for our ranking. We want to stay in the top ten in Africa and push for ninth place,” he said.
Broos has added two new players, Pirates midfielder Masindi Nemtajela and Sekhukhune winger Elias Mokwana, and says both could make their debuts.
“They’ve made the first step by being selected. Now we’ll see if they can get some minutes,” he said.
Pictured above: Bafana coach Hugo Broos confident as his side prepares for Afcon.
Image source: File
