Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has once again sung the praises of Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Bathusi Aubaas, emphasizing the critical role the 29-year-old plays at both the national team and his club.
While Broos acknowledged that Aubaas might not be the most technically gifted player, he made it clear that the midfielder's physicality and power are invaluable to his team's success.
"You know, when you try to build a team, you always try to have complementary players," Broos explained, reflecting on his team-building philosophy.
"On one side, you have Teboho [Mokoena], a technical player, good with the ball, maybe a little bit less powerful, but still effective. On the other side, you need a guy who has power, someone who may not be the best player, but who can push the team forward," he told journalists after the match.
Broos pointed to the departure of Siphephelo Sithole, a player who once provided that physical edge in the midfield, as a significant moment for his tactical reshuffling.
"Before, it was Sithole. That's why we had such a good AFCON in January, because both of them were complementary. Sithole gave us the power, and Teboho provided the technique."
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With Sithole no longer in the squad, Broos revealed that Aubaas has seamlessly filled that role, bringing the much-needed power to Bafana Bafana's midfield.
"Sithole is not there anymore, and I've always liked Bathusi. Again, he is not the finest player or the guy who will give the final pass. But there is power, and you need that in modern football. It's something that is normal, in football, technically you have to be good—but there is the physical side of football that is not just about being able to play 90 minutes, but also having the power," said Broos.
Aubaas' physical attributes have been pivotal in Bafana's recent success. Broos highlighted the team's ability to compete against powerhouses like Algeria and Ivory Coast in recent months.
"We had that power in our team during the AFCON, and that's why we got such good results. That's why we could compete with teams like Algeria and Ivory Coast, like we did in March and last year."
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Aubaas has been one of the standout players for both Sundowns and Bafana Bafana this season, with his combative style in the middle of the park making a significant impact. He was particularly instrumental in Bafana's 3-0 win over South Sudan, after their qualification for the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Despite not being known for his technical flair or vision, Aubaas' contribution to the team is unquestionable. His work rate, ability to break up opposition attacks, and drive forward are qualities that Broos believes are essential in helping the team compete at the highest levels.
With Bafana Bafana looking ahead to AFCON 2024, Aubaas will undoubtedly be a key figure in the national setup. Broos' acknowledgment of his importance underscores the growing reliance on the midfielder's physical presence, power, and consistency, both in domestic and international football.
