South Africa’s national football team, Bafana Bafana, is gearing up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, which runs from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026. The team received an official send-off at FNB Stadium in Soweto on Thursday, attended by legends from the 1996 AFCON-winning squad, including former captain Shaun Bartlett.
Despite recent controversy surrounding head coach Hugo Broos, Bartlett remains optimistic about the team’s prospects. He believes Bafana can surpass their bronze medal from the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast (held in early 2024). “They have learned a lot… Hugo Broos and the squad have done tremendously well over the last two years. The results speak for themselves—there’s cohesion and strong combinations in the squad,” Bartlett said.
Recent Controversy Involving Broos
Broos faced backlash for comments made during a press conference in Pretoria on Wednesday. Frustrated by young defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s late arrival to camp and his upcoming move to MLS side Chicago Fire, Broos reportedly referred to Mbokazi’s female agent, Basia Michaels, in a condescending manner (e.g., as a “woman who thinks she knows football” or “nice little woman”). He also made remarks interpreted by some as racially charged regarding a potential discussion with Mbokazi.
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) lodged a formal complaint with the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), labeling the remarks “racist and sexist.” Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie has sought clarification from SAFA and Broos before commenting further.
Separately, Broos criticized FIFA’s decision to allow clubs to release African players only on 15 December—shortening preparation time for many teams. He argued this shows “a lack of respect” for African football, especially impacting nations reliant on Europe-based players, though Bafana benefits from a largely local squad.
Team Mood and Expectations
Assistant coach Helman Mkhalele described the camp mood as “high,” noting the team is no longer underdogs after recent successes, including qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup (their first since 2002, excluding the 2010 host appearance). “Expectations are high… our players are mentally and physically ready,” he said.
Bafana will play a final warm-up against Ghana on 16 December before departing for Morocco. They are in a tough Group B with Angola (22 Dec opener), Egypt (26 Dec), and Zimbabwe (29 Dec).
Nearly 30 years after their sole AFCON title in 1996, optimism is growing that Broos’ side—boosted by World Cup qualification—could challenge for glory again. The controversy adds pressure, but support from legends like Bartlett underscores belief in the team’s potential.