Broos charts new course for Bafana

AS South Africa gears up for its upcoming international fixtures, national team coach Hugo Broos is setting the stage for Bafana Bafana to evolve beyond the reliance on Mamelodi Sundowns stars.

- HERMAN GIBBS

For almost a decade, Sundowns have formed the backbone of the national team, but they are unavailable due to the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.

This will allow Broos to run the rule over new players, starting with Friday's friendly against Tanzania at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane (kick-off at 7.30pm). Broos has a second chance next Tuesday to cultivate a more diverse talent pool that reflects the rich tapestry of footballing capabilities across the nation. Bafana will host Mozambique next Tuesday evening at the same venue. Broos, who took the reins of Bafana in 2021, has been vocal about the necessity for growth, not just on an individual level but across the entire squad.

Sundowns have dominated local football in recent years and have produced a wealth of talent that has bolstered the national team.

However, Broos firmly believes that focusing solely on Sundowns players could lead to stagnation, especially as the landscape of South African football continues to evolve.