World Cup 2026: We silenced ‘big mouths’ – South Africa boss Hugo Broos

South Africa head coach Hugo Broos launched a spirited defence of his team after Bafana Bafana secured a historic place in the knockout stages of the FIFA World Cup for the first time with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over South Korea on Thursday.

Thapelo Maseko’s second-half strike proved decisive in Monterrey, sealing second place in Group A for South Africa behind co-hosts Mexico, who progressed with a perfect record of three wins from three matches.

The achievement marks a remarkable turnaround for Bafana Bafana, who had come under intense scrutiny following their 2-0 defeat to Mexico in their opening group match.

However, a resilient draw against the Czech Republic, followed by victory over South Korea in a winner-takes-all encounter, was enough to secure passage to the Round of 32.

Speaking after the match, Broos took aim at critics who had questioned his methods in recent weeks.

“I’m very proud of the performance of my team, and I think we gave an answer to all those big mouths of the last weeks who thought that we had to change something,” said a defiant Broos.

“We just did what we did. We just did what I wanted to do and this is the result.”

The 74-year-old Belgian, who has been in charge of South Africa since 2021, admitted that guiding the team into the knockout rounds was among the most emotional moments of his coaching career.

“I said it already in the past that it will probably be one of the last games of my career and when you can end a career like I had in this way, I think everybody or every coach dreams of it.”

Broos also highlighted the close bond he shares with his players, insisting that the strong relationship within the squad has been key to their success.

“Between me as a coach and them as players is yes, maybe something unique – I’m the coach, but I’m not a coach,” he said.

“I think I’m a friend of theirs. So the relationship between the players and me, this is very good.”

South Africa will now turn their attention to a Round of 32 clash against tournament co-hosts Canada in Los Angeles on Sunday, with a place in the last 16 at stake.

Broos remains optimistic that his side can continue their historic run.

“I just know that the players will be ready again and try to achieve the third round,” said Broos.

“It should be even more historic. But those players are chasing those things. Those players want to prove to everyone and to show that they are a good team. So we will see next Sunday if we can go further.”