Johannesburg – Former Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Keagan Buchanan believes Hugo Broos has built an unbreakable bond within the Bafana Bafana camp, saying the South African national team now carries the unity and belief associated with Rassie Erasmus and the Springboks.
Speaking on the Michael Morton Speaks Football podcast, Buchanan said Broos has instilled a clear winning mindset ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations scheduled for Morocco. “I think if you look at him, there’s no way he’s not telling them they must go try and win it,” Buchanan said, describing the approach of the 72 year old Belgian coach.
Buchanan linked that mentality to Bafana Bafana’s revival under Broos, pointing to the bronze medal finish at the 2023 AFCON and qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The qualification marked South Africa’s first appearance at the global showpiece since 2002, excluding the 2010 tournament when they featured as hosts.
“He’s built the country like a club,” Buchanan said. “The way he’s been consistent in selection, even with the players he brings in, it looks like a club environment.”
Broos has also written his name into the history books as the first coach to guide Bafana Bafana to consecutive AFCON tournaments. Buchanan said this reflects the level of trust between the players and the coach’s vision. “He knows exactly what he wants to do with the national team and he’s not afraid to make big decisions,” Buchanan said. “They ask him on TV why he doesn’t pick certain players and he says he doesn’t care.”
Buchanan compared Broos’ direct style to that of former Bafana Bafana striker Benni McCarthy, saying honesty has a positive effect on players. “Benni tells you straight what he does and what he doesn’t. Broos is the same,” he said. “He transfers that confidence to the players, and you can see it in the way the team is playing.”
According to Buchanan, the commitment within the squad now runs deeper than national duty. “They are not just playing for the country, they are playing for him as well. The players will die for him,” he said.
He added that the team’s confidence is visible on the pitch. “When you have that Springboks and Rassie vibes, that strong connection, you see it. Bafana don’t look like they can lose.”
Buchanan also praised the quality in the current squad, singling out captain Ronwen Williams and the defensive unit. “In Ronwen we have the best keeper in Africa,” he said. “And in my opinion, besides Achraf Hakimi, we have the best right back on the continent.”
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