Mentality of Bafana Bafana has improved since my arrival – Hugo Broos

South Africa head coach Hugo Broos says the biggest transformation in the Bafana Bafana setup since his appointment has been the players’ mentality and professional attitude.

“The biggest improvement since my arrival has been the mentality and professional attitude, the belief in our own qualities,” Broos told CAFOnline.com.

The Belgian tactician, who took charge of the national team in May 2021 on a five-year contract, has overseen a remarkable turnaround in South African football.

Under his guidance, Bafana Bafana secured a third-place finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Broos explained that the team’s growing belief and consistency have been key to their success. He revealed that maintaining a stable “main group” of players has helped foster better understanding and improved performances.

“It is very important to have a consistent identity and style because it makes things easier and transparent for the players,” he noted.

As Bafana Bafana prepare to face Zambia in a friendly next week and gear up for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, Broos emphasised that mental readiness will be crucial heading into the continental showpiece.

“The key is mental preparation, believing in our qualities and sticking to our game plan,” he stated.