By Michael Madyira
Hugo Broos’ remarkable transformation from being a strong critic of his Bafana Bafana squad to expressing optimism has injected more hope into the national team.
South Africa claimed bronze at the Africa Cup of Nations finals which end on Sunday.
They beat DR Congo via a penalty shootout on Saturday, following a 0-0 regulation time draw.
For a coach who took no prisoners when it came to publicly lambasting his players, especially his misfiring forwards, the Belgian is now singing a different tune.
“I said after the Nigeria match that I was proud of this team and I think today people can see why I say I am proud of this team,” Broos said post-match per CAF Online.
“We were not fresh but when you see the mentality in that group, it is impressive. The boys did very well. They showed great mentality.”
Previously, Broos even questioned the competitiveness of the Premier Soccer League, but his squad dominated as local-based players now delivered bronze for him.
It took time for the players to grasp the methodologies of the former Cameroon coach; and he is delighted they are now doing things his way.
“They tried to do what I asked, and I understand that it was difficult,” added Broos.
“It shows that we if we have problems, we can count on those who are on the bench. I was satisfied with players on the pitch, but I was even more satisfied with those off the pitch.”
“They were encouraging them and pushing them. From this, you know that you have 23 guys who want one thing and that is winning.”
Having concluded their Afcon campaign, Bafana now shift focus to March’s international friendly matches against Andorra and Algeria before resuming 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers in June.
Pictured above: Bafana Bafana players mob goalkeeper Ronwen Williams after the DR Congo match
Image source: CAF
