Belgian tactician Hugo Broos has assumed the helm of South Africa’s technical management, orchestrating Bafana Bafana’s remarkable journey to the quarter-final stage of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after 24 years. Broos, who boasts an illustrious history in African football, is now poised to lead South Africa in their pursuit of a continental title, an achievement eluding them for 28 years.
South Africa’s AFCON triumph dates back to 1996, and Broos was appointed on May 5, 2021, with the explicit mandate to revive the team’s fortunes.
In a strategic move, the experienced coach secured success in the COSAFA tournament by clinching victory over Senegal in a penalty shootout (0-0; 5-4) on July 18, 2021, with the local South African team.
Recognizing the potential of local talent, Broos strategically immersed himself in the South African championship, meticulously forming a cohesive national team.
The AFCON 2023 qualifiers witnessed South Africa emerge triumphant in a crucial clash against Morocco, securing their passage to the tournament’s final phase.
Broos, a seasoned campaigner in the African Cup of Nations, previously led Cameroon to glory in 2017, showcasing his adept understanding of the competition.
His tactical acumen and emphasis on organizational discipline have been evident in South Africa’s performance, notably with players from Mamelodi Sundowns, ensuring success that has propelled the team to the semi-finals after a 24-year hiatus.
Setting sights on a mission akin to his success with Cameroon in 2017, Broos aspires to lead South Africa to AFCON 2023 victory, despite being considered an underdog.
With two crucial matches ahead, the seasoned coach is determined to etch his name in the annals of South African football history, signaling a resurgence for Bafana Bafana after nearly three decades.