Following an embarrassing display against Eswatini on Friday night, Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos did not hold back as he lashed out at his players – saying their poor display was the worst performance he ever witnessed.
The Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) bound Bafana failed to live up to expectations as they were held to a disappointing goalless draw by the number 144-ranked side.
Despite the absence of key players Percy Tau, Ronwen Williams, Thapelo Morena and Bathusi Aubaas, Bafana had more than enough firepower to demolish Eswatini.
Star midfielder Themba Zwane, Burnley top goal scorer Lyle Foster, US-based duo Njabulo Blom and Bongokuhle Hlongwane were all present, but all looked uninspired to deliver when Broos needed them the most.
After the match, the outspoken Belgium international expressed his anger and said for the first time since taking over, he could not recognize his team.
“There were many feelings that went through my body during the game and now after the game,” Broos said after the game.
“Frustration, anger, unbelief…I didn’t believe what I saw in the first half, and the second half. The first half was worse because we played very badly.
“I think we had one chance to score in 90 minutes against, again, with all due respect, Eswatini.
“I didn’t recognise my team. We tried changing something during the half-time and hoping that things would be better.
“It’s unbelievable when three months ago, you saw that team playing against Morocco. It’s unbelievable four or five months ago, you saw that team playing against Liberia.
“You can’t believe your eyes when you see that. There was no passion, we lost nearly every duel, and we played far from our opponents. We were lucky, Eswatini could have scored,” he added.
Broos said the performance against Eswatini should serve as a wake-up call for his side, as they have a massive task in their hands going forward.
Bafana have 2026 World Cup qualifiers next months, which will be followed by the Afcon tournament that will take place in Ivory Coast next year.
