Bafana Bafana coach, Broos slams FIFA’s timing on points deduction

South Africa head coach Hugo Broos has voiced strong frustration over FIFA’s delayed decision to dock Bafana Bafana three points for fielding a suspended player, calling the timing ‘very strange’ and hinting at behind the scenes lobbying.

Speaking after announcing his squad for the crucial World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda, Broos confirmed that Siyabonga Ngezana, who was suspended, has been left out this time, stressing that the administrative error that led to the deduction ‘will never happen again.’

‘It was a big mistake from all of us. Even the player didn’t remember he had a yellow card in November 2023. But now we have 25 people at Safa House checking yellow cards, even I have a list,’ Broos said.

Despite accepting the punishment, Broos questioned FIFA’s process, noting that the sanctions committee met three times without mentioning South Africa, only to reopen the case unexpectedly.

‘One day after the last meeting, we got the letter. Very strange. It means there has been a lot of lobbying behind the scenes,’ he said.

With the points deduction threatening South Africa’s World Cup hopes, Broos remains defiant, dismissing predictions that Benin will leapfrog his side.

‘If Benin win in Nigeria and Rwanda, congratulations to them, but I don’t think it will happen,’ he said.

‘If we win our two matches, there’s a big chance we’ll qualify.’ he said and ended on a determined note.

‘Punishment is there and we have to move on to get two victories.’