Hugo Broos Confident in Bafana Bafana’s International Quality

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos is convinced that South Africa’s national team will benefit significantly from the international experience gained by players featuring in continental club competitions.

Sundowns, Pirates, and Stellenbosch Shine in Africa

Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates have secured places in the quarter-finals of the 2024/25 CAF Champions League, while Stellenbosch FC has reached the last eight of the CAF Confederation Cup. Although Sekhukhune United has been eliminated, the continued presence of South African clubs in continental competitions is a boost for the national team.

Broos expressed his delight at seeing multiple teams progressing, as it ensures more players gain valuable international exposure.

Broos on the Importance of International Experience

“You know, one of the reasons that we did so well at [2023 Africa Cup of Nations], the team had six or seven players from Sundowns who had experience in the Champions League, so I think it was one of the reasons why we performed so well,” Broos stated.

“Now with Pirates doing very well, there are five or six players from Pirates in the [squad], so that is a positive sign for me.

“I was happy to see the South African teams qualifying for the next round; international experience is crucial, and many players from other teams lack this when they join Bafana Bafana.

“I’m very happy that Stellenbosch, Pirates, and Sundowns have progressed further. Before, it was only Sundowns competing at this stage. Now, having Pirates and Stellies in the mix is good for Bafana Bafana.”

What’s Next for Bafana Bafana?

The national team will return to action in March when the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers resume. However, their most significant challenge in 2025 will be the Africa Cup of Nations, set to take place in Morocco.

With an increasing number of South African players gaining international exposure, Bafana Bafana will hope to leverage their experience to perform well in upcoming tournaments and stand a chance of making a deep run in continental and global competitions.