'Solutions for Bafana lie at home, not Europe'

FORMER Kaizer Chiefs and Cape Town Spurs coach Ernst Middendorp has weighed in on the debate sparked by Hugo Broos’ comments following Bafana Bafana’s exit from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

- SMISO MSOMI

South Africa were eliminated in the Round of 16 after a defeat to Cameroon in Morocco, bringing a disappointing end to their AFCON campaign.

The Indomitable Lions exposed defensive frailties that plagued Bafana throughout the tournament, with the team conceding six goals in four matches at the Nations Cup.

Despite the early exit, Broos’ side had progressed to the knockout stages after finishing second in Group B with six points from three matches.

Bafana collected victories over Angola and Zimbabwe, and suffered a defeat to Egypt in the group stages.

Upon the team’s return from Morocco, Broos told reporters that South Africa needed more players competing in top European leagues if they were to seriously challenge for major trophies such as AFCON.