Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has defended the ‘negative approach’ he opted for during the 2-0 loss to Mexico in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Thursday.
South Africa suffered a loss in Group A in front of a packed Estadio Azteca in Mexico. Broos opted for a defensive approach against the co-hosts, with Aubrey Modiba, Mbekezile Mbokazi, Ime Okon, Khuliso Mudau and Nkosinathi Sibisi starting in the back five.
The Belgian also went for three defensive midfielders with Sphephelo Sithole, Jayden Adams and Teboho Mokoena.
The tactics have faced heavy criticism from the South African football fraternity, with many believing Bafana Bafana could have gotten a result against a Mexico side that looked there for the taking.
When asked why he went for the negative approach, Broos justified his team selection, saying they were the better team despite a shaky start in the first few minutes.
BAFANA BAFANA COACH DEFENDS HIS TACTICS AGAINST MEXICO
“If you saw the game, you will know why I did that because the game, except for the first 15 minutes, was pressure for Mexico,” he told journalists.
“After that, there was balance in the game. Again, Mexico were desperate. They didn’t know what to do with the ball. The two central defenders were just waiting and didn’t have solutions. So, I think that is the answer to your question on why I played like this today [Thursday].
HUGO BROOS BACKS HIS PLAYERS AFTER DISASTROUS START TO THE WORLD CUP
“I didn’t think it’s a problem with the standard of my players. It’s just that this level is much higher than whatever level we were playing. We were playing against a good team. But I also have to tell you that we played a good game.
“I saw a desperate Mexico somewhere in the game. They didn’t know what to do with the ball. The organisation was perfect defensively. On the other side, we have to improve defensively.”
Bafana will now shift their focus to their second Group clash when they face the Czech Republic on Thursday, 18 June, in Atlanta.
Ofhani Munyai is in Mexico City, courtesy of FARPost.
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