Belgium’s Hugo Broos, coach of South Africa, erupted in frustration after his team’s 1–0 defeat to Egypt, focusing his anger on the first-half penalty that decided the AFCON 2025 clash in Agadir.
Egypt snatched victory when Mohamed Salah converted from the spot in the 44th minute after going down in the area following contact with defender Khuliso Mudau.
Broos launched a fierce attack on Burundian referee Pacifique Ndabihawenimana in the post-match press conference, describing the decision to award the penalty as “really ridiculous.” His words reflected the deep frustration in the South African camp, who felt harshly treated in a match where they had competed well.
The coach then revealed a striking detail from a conversation with Salah after the final whistle. According to Broos, the Egyptian star admitted he was surprised the incident had been given as a penalty, a comment that only fuelled the South African’s sense of injustice.
The controversy quickly spread across social media, with clips of Broos’s angry reaction and the incident itself widely shared as fans debated whether the referee had made the right call.
Angry Bafana coach Hugo Broos slams officiating during their Afcon match against Egypt. pic.twitter.com/6uxxmKvmdt
— Mahlatse Mphahlele (@BraMahlatse) December 26, 2025
