South Africa coach Hugo Broos targets AFCON glory and 2030 World Cup qualification

South Africa coach Hugo Broos says winning the Africa Cup of Nations and qualifying for the 2030 World Cup should be the ultimate target for the Bafana Bafana.

The Bafana Bafana’s journey at the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to an end in the Round of 32 following defeat to Canada men’s national soccer team, but Broos believes the experience gained during the tournament could prove invaluable for the team’s long-term development.

The Belgian tactician stressed that regular qualification for elite international competitions should become the minimum expectation for South African football moving forward.

“For a country like South Africa, it’s very important to be in all important tournaments, whether it’s AFCON or the World Cup,” Broos said.

“Now, I think with the experience we have from that World Cup, I think we can become better.”

Broos also challenged the national team to set higher ambitions on the African continent, insisting that winning the Africa Cup of Nations should become the next major objective for Bafana Bafana.

“Certainly, it will play a more important role at AFCON, winning AFCON should be the next goal,” he added.

The experienced coach further emphasized the importance of maintaining South Africa’s upward trajectory by targeting qualification for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

“And also, being in the 2030 FIFA World Cup, I think if South Africa can achieve that in the next three, four years, you’ll see where they will be,” Broos continued.

Despite the encouraging progress made under his leadership, uncertainty remains surrounding Broos’ future with the national team.

Discussions regarding his position are expected to take place soon, although reports suggest the South African Football Association could part ways with the veteran coach following the World Cup campaign.

Broos has played a significant role in rebuilding South Africa’s competitiveness on the international stage, helping Bafana Bafana regain belief and establish themselves once again as a respected force in African football.