While singing the praises of Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos, former Orlando Pirates defender Siyabonga Sangweni has issued a pointed request to whoever succeeds the departing Belgian tactician.
Since his appointment in 2021, Broos has transformed the national team, leading South Africa to a second successive AFCON tournament. Over his four-year tenure, the Belgian has been credited with reviving a “sleeping giant” and restoring Bafana’s reputation as one of Africa’s most formidable sides.
Broos’ success is rooted in his unwavering philosophy of prioritising youth over experience—a bold departure from the South African tradition of relying on veteran players. Reflecting on this legacy, Sangweni admitted that the road wasn’t always smooth for the coach.
“We must thank the coach for the development he has brought to South Africa,” said the man affectionately known as ‘Nsimbi.’ “If you remember, we were all critical of him when he first began assembling a young squad that seemingly lacked the experience for the national stage.”
SANGWENI TO BROOS’ SUCCESSOR: DON’T ABANDON THE YOUTH POLICY
Sangweni now concedes that Broos’ gamble has paid off. “We can see the results now. He has shown exactly what he came here to do. In my opinion, we should be very thankful to him.”
Ahead of the upcoming AFCON campaign, Broos has remained true to his vision. His final 23-man squad features seven players under the age of 23, including 20-year-olds Shandre Campbell and Tylon Smith. Both starlets earned their senior call-ups after leading South Africa to glory as 2025 AFCON Under-20 champions.
Sangweni is confident that this youthful energy is exactly what Bafana needs to reach the pinnacle.
“I think the squad he has selected will help us reach our goal—the final. My wish is that we even win the tournament,” Sangweni asserted. “I urge the boys to stay focused and not think they have already made it.”
With Broos set to retire following the [FIFA] 2026 World Cup, Sangweni concluded with a firm piece of advice for the South African Football Association [SAFA] and the next coach in line.
“Even when the coach leaves, whoever comes next must continue to believe in the youngsters. We have seen them perform. We can no longer claim a player is only ready once they are older. No, the proof is right here.”
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