Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos urges a killer instinct ahead of Sunday’s crucial AFCON fixture

With Sunday’s AFCON Round of 16 looming, Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos said that improved focus and aggressive play have never been more urgent.

South Africa is bracing for a daunting clash against either the Ivory Coast or Cameroon, and according to Broos, it’s time for his players to turn up the intensity and show some serious edge if they hope to advance further in the tournament.

Initially, the team’s entry into the tournament sparked optimism, with glimpses of potential on display in the group stages.

However, Broos’ alarm about Bafana’s defensive vulnerabilities looms large after a series of underwhelming performances.

“We are making the same mistakes again,” Broos lamented, highlighting the tendency of his players to lose shape defensively and afford opponents too much space to exploit.

“When you look at the first goal we conceded, one player ran past three or four of our players without being challenged. If you defend like that, we will concede in every game, and that must stop.”

The coach’s frustration was palpable after watching his squad navigate a rocky path through the group stages. A promising start against Angola quickly deteriorated as the team succumbed to pressure.

This frustrating pattern persisted during a hard-fought encounter with ten-man Egypt and a shaky win against Zimbabwe, where the Warriors struck back twice, catching South Africa off guard.

Looking ahead, Broos is acutely aware that the stakes are higher now than ever, especially as they prepare to face a formidable contender in the next round.

“This is something I am worried about because it happened again,” he stated earnestly. “If we play like this against a team like Cameroon, we have no chance.” His message is clear—the team cannot afford to falter under the intensity of knockout football.

The seasoned tactician did not shy away from addressing specific players’ performances. Sipho Mbule and Teboho Mokoena have come under scrutiny for failing to deliver the expected impact at this crucial moment.

“I am not happy with the performance and the way some players are acting on the pitch,” Broos remarked, underscoring the collective need for enhancement ahead of the decisive clash.

As the clock ticks down to Sunday, January 4, 2026, in Rabat, Broos has instilled in his squad the importance of unwavering commitment, aggression, and laser-sharp concentration.

“We have to fight more, concentrate more, and be more focused,” he implored. “If we think it is going to be easy, we are going to be in trouble.”

As the tournament has proven more challenging than before, Bafana Bafana must refine its strategy to make a deeper run.

Mzansi will be hoping their team can tighten up defensively and keep the dream of AFCON glory alive.