Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has criticised FIFA for what he calls “disrespectful” treatment of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), saying it is unacceptable that overseas-based players can only join their national teams on 15 January — just six days before the tournament kicks off in Morocco.
Broos expressed frustration after only 21 players reported for Bafana’s final training camp at the High-Performance Centre in Pretoria. Four overseas-based players — Lyle Foster, Sphephelo Sithole, Shandre Campbell and Siyabonga Ngezana — are only expected next week. “I don’t know what FIFA thinks about this competition,” Broos said, questioning how countries heavily reliant on foreign-based players, like Morocco, Senegal and Nigeria, are expected to prepare adequately.
The camp began with just 12 players after Orlando Pirates members were given a short break following their Carling Knockout Final win. Defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi arrived late after missing his flight from Durban — an issue that left Broos furious. Calling the behaviour “very unprofessional,” the coach said, “This is very bad for a 19-year-old who is going to AFCON and the World Cup. I can’t accept it.”
One bright spot for Broos has been the early arrival of 20-year-old defender Tylon Smith, released ahead of schedule by English club Queens Park Rangers.
Bafana received further good news with confirmation of a warm-up match against Ghana next Tuesday at a venue still to be finalised. The team will depart for Morocco the following day.