Broos warns of tough challenges ahead

ON the eve of Bafana Bafana’s journey to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, head coach Hugo Broos has issued a stark warning about the road ahead.

- HERMAN GIBBS

Following a narrow 1-0 victory against a determined Ghana B side at Dobsonville Stadium, which served as their final warm-up match, Broos emphasised the heightened challenges that await his squad.

South Africa kicks off its Afcon-campaign in Group B, facing Angola in the first match on 22 December. The group also includes African football heavyweights Egypt and regional rivals Zimbabwe, making for a demanding schedule.

Despite the optimism stemming from an unbeaten qualifying run and a commendable bronze-medal finish at the previous Afcon, Broos made it clear that complacency must not set in.

"The only thing we have to do is achieve the highest level, and I know these players can do that,” Broos commented.

“It was the same last time, but the pressure is different now.”

The 73-year-old Belgian tactician, who lifted the Afcon trophy in 2017, underscored the tournament's growing prestige and competitiveness, stressing that every opponent poses a serious threat.