With the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers fast approaching, Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has issued a rallying cry to his squad: “We have to fight with everything we’ve got,” as South Africa prepares to face Lesotho and Nigeria in critical Group C encounters.
Broos, who has navigated a season marred by injuries, emphasized the importance of full-body commitment and mental grit.
“We are still strong enough to beat Lesotho, but … we have to be focused, be concentrated, to reach our best level. Let’s start fighting for every square metre on the pitch and try to win that game.”
Camp Disruptions and Defensive Rebuild
The Belgian coach admitted this could be one of his toughest preparations since taking over in May 2021. Key players like Nkosinathi Sibisi, Ime Okon, Themba Zwane, S’phelele Sithole, Grant Kekana, and Patrick Maswanganyi have all been ruled out due to injuries, forcing Broos to call up a largely inexperienced backline and midfield.
With only a few days to impose his tactical scheme, Broos took the tough call to send Maswanganyi back home, citing the lack of guaranteed fitness. He opted instead for Orlando Pirates playmaker Sipho Mbule, a player he described as “experienced and the right fit for the role.”
Frustration Over Venue and Logistics
Broos also voiced his displeasure with the condition of the Free State Stadium pitch in Bloemfontein—initially slated to host the Lesotho match. Describing it as substandard, he noted that, despite six weeks to prepare, the pitch remained poor, unlike the better-maintained pitches in Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, and Polokwane. The team will now remain in Johannesburg until matchday, travelling to Bloemfontein only when necessary.
Looking Ahead: Focus and Opportunity
Despite the logistical and injury setbacks, Broos remains unwavering in his belief that Bafana can emerge from this qualification phase stronger. He insisted that taking maximum points from Lesotho and Nigeria is imperative and that the team has the quality and focus required to deliver. There’s also an optimistic edge in his words:
“If we win on Friday, the job is done,” he said, referencing the domino effect such a win could trigger in the group.
Summary
As Bafana Bafana prepare to tackle Lesotho and Nigeria, coach Hugo Broos is steering his young, injured-impacted side with confidence. The focus is clear: every square metre must be earned, every challenge faced head-on, and every opportunity seized on the road to the World Cup.
