Hugo Broos Warns Against Complacency Ahead of Bafana Bafana’s Crucial AFCON Qualifier Against Uganda

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has sounded a note of caution as his side prepares for a critical 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Uganda. With the match set for Friday at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Broos emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and not underestimating their East African opponents.

The South African national team departed for Uganda earlier this week, eyeing victory to secure their qualification for next year’s continental tournament. The team needs only one win or two draws from their final two qualifiers to guarantee their spot in the competition. Meanwhile, Uganda has already secured qualification, adding an unpredictable element to the match as they play with the confidence of an already confirmed participant.

Broos Urges Vigilance

Speaking to journalists before the team’s departure, Broos expressed optimism about ending the year on a high note but was quick to acknowledge the potential challenges posed by Uganda.

“We can end 2024 on a fantastic note,” said the Belgian coach. “We started the year very well with the bronze medal at the 2023 AFCON, and it would be nice to end it with qualification for AFCON again. We will try to qualify in the first game [against Uganda].”

Broos was realistic about the difficulties Bafana could face, noting that Uganda’s confidence, bolstered by a successful qualifying campaign and home advantage, could make them formidable opponents.

“It will not be easy because we are playing against an opponent who is already qualified and who is confident,” he added. “I think they played very good qualifiers, and they are playing at home. But in the past, we succeeded in winning difficult games and we know we can do it because we have quality in the team.”

Match Details and Next Steps

The match against Uganda is set to kick off at 15:00 South African time. Following the clash, Bafana Bafana will return home to host South Sudan at the DHL Stadium in Cape Town on Tuesday, which could be the final step in securing their AFCON ticket if necessary.

This two-match stretch will be pivotal for Broos and his team, who are looking to build on their successes from earlier in the year and reestablish themselves as consistent contenders on the African football stage.

Eyes on the Prize

With a history of strong performances under pressure, Bafana Bafana will hope to replicate past successes and secure qualification as early as possible. Broos’ focus on maintaining high standards and avoiding complacency will be key as they aim to take another step toward continental glory.

For South African fans, the hope is that Broos’ meticulous preparation and the team’s determination will translate into a decisive win on Friday and an eventual place in the 2025 AFCON.