Bafana Bafana Coach Hugo Broos Supports the Team Besides the Preparation Chaos. Image: Ashley Vlotman/ Gallo Images.
(The Post News)– Hugo Broos, Bafana Bafana’s head coach, has issued a cry to his squad as they prepare for fixtures in their bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The national team is set to face Lesotho away on Friday, 5 September 2025, before returning to host continental giants Nigeria on Tuesday, 9 September, in what could prove a defining week for their qualification hopes.
Broos, who has overseen a mix of highs and lows since taking charge of the national side, emphasized the importance of mental strength, unity, and total commitment ahead of the back-to-back matches. Speaking to the media ahead of the trip to Lesotho, the Belgian tactician acknowledged the mounting pressure but remained optimistic that his team can rise to the occasion despite a growing injury list that has disrupted his plans.
“We are still strong enough to beat Lesotho,” said Broos. “But again, we need to focus, and we must concentrate. These are not games we can stroll through; we must fight from the first second. Playing good football is fine when the opportunity allows it, but our mindset must be to battle for every ball, for every square meter of the pitch. If we can come away with a win on Friday, it will put us in a very good position going into the Nigeria match.”
Broos Adds on The World Cup Campaign.
Broos admitted that this current training camp has been one of the most difficult of his career, with injuries and off-field issues depleting his squad. With several regulars already ruled out, the coach was dealt another blow when Ime Okon and Patrick Maswanganyi sustained injuries ahead of the Lesotho clash. In response, Broos called up Sipho Mbule and Thabo Moloisane as late replacements.
“It’s been tough,” Broos said. “Every time we try to settle on a squad, something happens. But we have to adapt. This is football. It’s about how we respond when things don’t go according to plan.”
Broos’ Young Talent Steps Up
At Monday’s official arrival press conference, Broos was joined by rising stars Kamogelo Sebelele and Mduduzi Shabalala, who both expressed their pride at being called up to the senior national team. The pair, who have impressed in domestic competition, said the opportunity validates the hard work they’ve put in for their respective clubs.
“It’s a dream come true,” said Shabalala. “Being recognized by the national team is the biggest honor, and I’m ready to give my best.”
“I’ve been working hard and waiting for this chance,” Sebelele added. “Now that it’s here, I want to make the most of it.”
Broos has increasingly looked to South Africa’s younger generation in the face of injuries and inconsistent form among senior players. With key players sidelined, the responsibility now falls on a blend of experienced campaigners and fresh faces to carry the team through this critical stage.
The Road to 2026
South Africa’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, andMexico, remains challenging. The qualifiers are fiercely competitive, and the group stages leave little room for error. Victory against Lesotho would provide momentum and confidence ahead of the far more daunting fixture against Nigeria, one of Africa’s top-ranked sides.
Nigeria has long been a thorn in Bafana Bafana’s side, but Broos believes home support in Johannesburg could prove decisive in the second match.
“We know Nigeria’s quality, and we respect them,” Broos said. “But when we play at home, with our supporters behind us, we can match anyone. The first step is to do the job in Lesotho and build from there.”
With World Cup qualification now entering a decisive phase, the South African Football Association (SAFA) has urged fans to rally behind the national team. Tickets for the Nigeria match are already in high demand, and there’s growing optimism that Broos’ side can push through the challenges and secure a place at football’s most prestigious tournament. The coach, though, remains grounded.
“We take nothing for granted,” he said. “We fight for every point. These next two matches will define how far we’ve come and how far we’re willing to go.”
Fixtures:
- Lesotho vs South Africa – Friday, 5 September 2025 (Away)
- South Africa vs Nigeria – Tuesday, 9 September 2025 (Home)
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