Hugo Broos admits naming final Bafana Bafana squad for 2025 AFCON will be difficult

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos says choosing his final squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will be one of the most difficult decisions of his tenure, with competition for places now far stronger than in previous years.

Speaking to the media after South Africa’s friendly win over Zambia, Broos acknowledged that several positions will pose major selection challenges.

He explained that Saturday’s match was used to give minutes to players who have not featured regularly, allowing him to assess how they respond, adapt to tactical demands, and fit into the team’s overall structure. While he was not entirely satisfied, he said the exercise provided valuable insight.

Broos was particularly encouraged by the impact of those who came on in the second half, hinting that some of them may force their way into his plans for the AFCON squad.

The Belgian coach reflected on how selecting a squad had been far easier two years ago.

He admitted that leaving players out will be painful for both the squad members and himself, but insisted the responsibility ultimately rests with him as the head coach.

“Again what I know what was so easy two years ago is now very difficult to do because we have more than 23 players who can go to AFCON and deserve to go to the AFCON but the decision will be made by me but some of them will maybe be painful for the players also for me because it’s not a good thing to drop a player,” he said.

At the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, South Africa have been pitted in Group B alongside Angola, Egypt, and Zimbabwe.