Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has once again confirmed that his tenure with the national team will be his last, reiterating that he plans to retire from coaching after the 2026 FIFA World Cup cycle.
Speaking in Bloemfontein ahead of this evening’s crucial World Cup qualifier against Lesotho, the 73-year-old Belgian tactician was asked about the significance of possibly returning to football’s biggest stage four decades after playing in the 1986 World Cup in Mexico.
“You know, 40 years ago, it will be 40 years next year that I did the World Championship in Mexico as a player,” Broos reflected.
“It should be fantastic to do it as a trainer 40 years later. And I said it already before, this is my last job as a coach. I’m 73. I’m not going on until I’m 80. So, yeah, it should be a nice moment to stop.
“And I’m really very motivated, and also my team, to achieve that. When you have a career as a coach like that, to play in a World Cup, I don't think so many coaches have the opportunity to do that. I think it should be the right moment to stop.”
Broos, who guided Cameroon to AFCON glory in 2017 before taking charge of Bafana in 2021, has often spoken about ending his coaching career with South Africa, but his latest remarks underline just how determined he is to close this chapter with qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
Focus on Lesotho
Turning his attention to tonight’s qualifier, the veteran coach was clear about the expectations.
“You know, for us, we have to win the game tomorrow (Friday). We know that,” Broos said confidently.
“What makes me happy is that I see a very motivated group. All the boys know that also for them, it should be a highlight in their career to go to America, Mexico or Canada next year.
“And I know they will fight for it from the first minute, from the first second, and for every square metre to beat Lesotho tomorrow. So, I think we are ready. But, again, it is, and it stays a football game. And you never know what can happen, but I’m confident.”
South Africa will follow up the Lesotho fixture with another stern test at home to Nigeria on Tuesday.
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