Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has firmly rejected any notion that South
Africa should be considered a favourite for the upcoming Africa Cup of
Nations in Morocco, labelling such talk as “dangerous” and premature.
Despite leading the team to a commendable third-place finish in the 2023
edition, the Belgian tactician argues the football landscape has evolved. He
believes Africa’s traditional giants, who underperviously underperformed,
will be far more formidable this time.
“It’s always very dangerous to put yourself as a favourite,” Broos stated.
“That is something for the media or the supporters to do.”
He emphasised that the tournament in Morocco will be significantly more
challenging than the last. “The only thing I can say is that this AFCON will
be tougher than the one in Ivory Coast,” he explained. “I don’t think the
big countries will make the same mistakes.”
Citing nations like Egypt, Cameroon, Ghana, and hosts Morocco—who all exited
early or failed to qualify last time—Broos suggested they have learned their
lesson. “This will not happen now,” he predicted.
With these powerhouses expected to reach the latter stages, Broos believes
the knockout phase will be exceptionally difficult. Consequently, he refuses
to place South Africa among the front-runners.
“Normally, all the big teams will be there after the group stages, so it
will be very tough to win this AFCON,” he said. “I will not tell you that
South Africa is favourite. If you can name a favourite, then it’s Morocco.
They are a very good team and they’re playing at home.”
Broos concluded that a true assessment can only be made after the group
stage. “We will see then which teams are still there, and maybe we can
change our opinion,” he said. “But for the moment, you will not hear me
saying that South Africa is one of the favourites.”
