Watch VideoHugo Broos demands return to Bafana Bafana ‘DNA’ ahead of Panama shakedown

Hugo Broos is laying down the law! After a tough AFCON exit, the boss is demanding a return to the discipline that earned South Africa bronze. Photo: Itumeleng English Independent Media Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos addressed the media at theSABCin Auckland Park on Thursday, after announcing his 23-man squad to face Panama this month, stressing that restoring key values missing at Afcon will be crucial to the team’s revival.

Bafana are currently in a transition phase. They headed into Afcon late last year as one of the favourites, following a period of growth that included a bronze-medal finish at the previous tournament. However, their campaign in Morocco ended in disappointment.

They returned home quietly in the early hours of a nondescript Wednesday morning at OR Tambo International Airport, where they were notably welcomed by Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie and a small group of journalists. The team’s performances fell well below expectations. Not only were they eliminated in the last 16, but they also lacked consistency throughout the tournament, leaving fans back home stunned.

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Broos faced criticism for his squad selection, with some calling for his dismissal. However, Safa – led by president Danny Jordaan – has continued to back the Belgian, maintaining that he remains the right man to lead the team to theupcoming World Cup in North America, extending what has been a promising five-year tenure. The 73-year-old will resume work with the squad next week, preparing for two international friendlies against Panama on March 27 and 31 at Moses Mabhida Stadium and DHL Stadium.

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