Belgian tactician Hugo Broos has once again shown why he’s regarded as a fearless coach who stands by his convictions, refusing to let public pressure sway his decisions. Looking at the recent form of the South African men’s national team, one might argue there’s little reason for fans to stress over squad selections anymore.
Naturally, many still wish to see certain in-form players rewarded with national call-ups – names like Thembinkosi Lorch, currently with Wydad in Morocco, as well as Puso Dithejane, Mduduzi Shabalala, and Gift Links often top the public wish list. However, as supporters, our role remains to back whoever is chosen to don the Bafana Bafana jersey. Only Broos and his technical team know the exact criteria behind their selections.
Continuity and stability are crucial for any team’s success. Some argue that previous coaches struggled because they focused too much on pleasing fans rather than enforcing their football philosophy. Every coach has a unique system and trusted core of players. Over time, minor reinforcements can be made – but overhauling the entire squad just to satisfy outside voices rarely breeds success. Ultimately, football is about results, and Broos believes his methods are the best route to achieving them.
Bafana Bafana are set to face Zambia on 15 November as part of their AFCON preparations. In announcing his 23-man squad, Broos included a few surprising names such as Masindi Nemtajela, Keletso Makgalwa, and Thabang Matuludi, who returns after recovering from a long-term injury.
Football pundits were quick to question the omission of Kaizer Chiefs’ standout performer Mduduzi Shabalala, but Broos addressed the decision head-on.
“It is a moment that you can try and pick some other players, and (Masindi) Nemtajela has made very good performances for Pirates,” Broos told reporters. “So, I have to call him and see how he is behaving and training with the group. That’s why Shabalala is not there. It’s not a question of him not playing well or me not wanting him anymore – no!”
Broos also voiced frustration over limited preparation time before the tournament, citing fixture congestion due to the ongoing Carling Knockout Cup. He hinted that SAFA and the PSL could have done more to support the national team’s schedule. In a light-hearted moment, Broos admitted he was “happy” that both Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs were eliminated early from the competition – and jokingly added that he hopes Orlando Pirates follow suit.
“I am very happy that Sundowns and Chiefs are out. So, I will not talk too hard now, but I hope maybe Pirates can be out too – then the guys have a little bit of rest,” Broos laughed.
