Bafana's startling transformation from boys to men with untold grit and maturity

DURING their 1-1 draw against African heavyweights Nigeria, Bafana Bafana showed a temperament never seen before.

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No longer 'The Boys, The Boys' (the Zulu translation of Bafana Bafana), the team's performance and character changed significantly, becoming more resilient and less like its youthful moniker.

They demonstrated an unexpected level of maturity and resilience, showcasing a newfound character that might prove pivotal in the future.

Bafana coach, Hugo Broos, has been the architect of this transformation, steering the team towards a mentality that prioritises gritty determination over flashy football.

Following a match where South Africa frustrated a star-studded Nigerian side, Broos commended his players for their fighting spirit and collective resolve, insisting that it was no longer just about flair, but about battling for every inch on the pitch.