‘One win, and we’re there’: Hugo Broos rallies Bafana Bafana toward World Cup return

With just one win separating Bafana Bafana from a long-awaited return to the FIFA World Cup, head coach Hugo Broos delivered a rallying cry that echoed across South Africa.

‘It’s up to us to win one game and we are qualified.’

The statement came after a tense 1-1 draw against Nigeria in Bloemfontein, a match that tested South Africa’s grit and resilience.

Despite the physicality and pressure, Bafana held their ground, inching closer to a spot in the 2026 World Cup in North America, something they haven’t achieved since hosting the tournament in 2010.

Broos, who has transformed the national team since taking over in 2021, praised his players for their fight.

‘Three or four years ago, we would have lost a game like this. Today, we fought for every ball, every metre.

‘Some players were exhausted, but they kept sprinting. That shows how much this group wants to go to the World Cup.’

With two home fixtures remaining viz against Zimbabwe and Rwanda, South Africa needs just three points to seal qualification.

The draw against Nigeria kept Bafana atop their group, while the Super Eagles now face an uphill battle.

The match itself was a bruising affair. Nigeria lost Ola Aina early to injury, and South Africa capitalized with a well-worked move that led to an own goal by Nigerian captain William Troost-Ekong.

Nigeria equalized through Calvin Bassey but failed to convert late chances.

Broos remains focused.
‘We’ve come this far. Now it’s about finishing the job. One win, and we’re there.’