Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos believes reaching the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup would be nothing short of a “miracle” for South Africa, despite his side already making history.
The 1996 CAF African champions have already caught the eye of the global football showpiece by qualifying for the World Cup knockout rounds for the very first time.
Broos’ men defied the odds to finish second in Group A behind co-hosts Mexico, remarkably beating out tournament favourites South Korea to seal progression. However, before the Belgian tactician can dream of a place in the Last 16, South Africa must first overcome co-hosts Canada in a highly anticipated Round of 32 clash at the Los Angeles Stadium on Sunday evening [21:00 SAST].
HUGO BROOS REFLECTS ON ‘SUCCESSFUL’ WORLD CUP CAMPAIGN
Speaking to the media ahead of the do-or-die encounter, Broos declared their North American campaign an unmitigated success but insisted his troops are not merely in California to make up the numbers.
“We can already say this World Cup has been successful. Everyone expected and hoped that we should reach the second round, and we are here,” Broos told reporters.
“This is incredibly important, but it does not mean we are satisfied to just play the game tomorrow and go home. Once you get to this stage, you want everything, and we want to win.”
BROOS DEMANDS ‘SOUTH KOREA MENTALITY’ TO SINK CANADA
To pull off another upset against a stubborn Canadian outfit, the veteran mentor has challenged his players to replicate the fighting spirit that saw them sink South Korea 1-0 in their final group match.
“If we can show the same mentality and the same level that we displayed against South Korea, then I think we have a genuine chance to win,” Broos added.
“Canada is a very tough, physical team. We will have to be at our absolute best; otherwise, it will be impossible. But if we can achieve progression to the next round, that will be a true miracle for Bafana Bafana.”
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