Few could have predicted the remarkable transformation of South Africa’s Bafana Bafana under Belgian tactician Hugo Broos. 

Since taking charge, the veteran coach — who famously led Cameroon to the  TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2017 title against has once again proven his pedigree on the continent by guiding South Africa to a third-place TotalEnergies CAF AFCON finish in Côte d’Ivoire, a TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025 qualification as well as a FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification, their first since hosting the global showiece in 2010.

His leadership has also reignited the nation’s passion for Bafana Bafana. Once greeted with scepticism, the team now plays in packed stadiums filled with vibrant supporters, a testament to the belief that Broos has restored in South African football. 

Broos’ influence has gone far beyond results. Under his leadership, Bafana Bafana have rediscovered a strong identity, tactical discipline, and renewed self-belief. 

“The biggest improvement since my arrival has been the mentality and professional attitude — the belief in our own qualities,” Broos told CAFOnline.

That belief was evident in Côte d’Ivoire, where South Africa defied expectations to reach the semi-finals, defeating continental heavyweights, including Morocco along the way. 

Looking ahead, Broos knows that repeating such a feat will be even tougher. 

“We have to convince the players that this time it will be harder because every team will be more motivated to beat us after our bronze medal. But we are capable of doing better,” he said.

The Belgian mentor has also instilled a clear, consistent style of play — a hallmark of his coaching philosophy. 

“It is very important to have a consistent identity and style because it makes things easier and transparent for the players,” he explained.

Broos’ side has improved remarkably in attack, scoring 17 goals in the recent qualifiers. 

“We looked for scoring players not only among strikers, but also wingers and midfielders,” he added.

Facing a challenging TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco Group B assignment  featuring Egypt, Zimbabwe, and Angola, Broos remains confident. 

“The key is mental preparation — believing in our qualities and sticking to our game plan,” he affirmed.

Under Broos, Bafana Bafana have also shown that they no longer fear Africa’s football giants. Whether facing Morocco, Nigeria, or Egypt, the South Africans now approach each contest with confidence.

Bafana Bafana will kick off the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025 preparations with a friendly against Zambia in November.