Johannesburg – Bafana Bafana arrived back in South Africa on Wednesday morning following their elimination from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, bringing an end to the national team’s continental campaign.
The squad landed at OR Tambo International Airport after suffering a 2–1 defeat to Cameroon in the round of 16 on Sunday, a result that halted South Africa’s hopes of progressing further in the tournament.
Head coach Hugo Broos admitted the disappointment was heavy, particularly given the team’s performance on the day. He said the defeat was difficult to accept, noting that fine margins ultimately decided the contest.“It was very tough after the game with Cameroon because I wanted to come back with a cup,” Broos said. “Sometimes we need luck, maybe it wasn’t there against Cameroon because we played a good game, but we lost it.”
Broos also addressed the reaction expected from supporters and critics back home, saying criticism is an unavoidable part of football at international level. Drawing on his decades of coaching experience, he said he has learned not to dwell on negative commentary, especially in moments of defeat.
“You know, when you win a match, there are people who are against you and those people start talking when there’s defeat,” he said. “People are frustrated and start talking about everything. For me, it’s something I don’t even listen to or read.”
The Belgian mentor added that his focus remains firmly on the team rather than public opinion.“I’m nearly 40 years as a coach, I have experienced this many times,” Broos said. “I’m not on social media, so I know these things happen, but I don’t follow them.”
South Africa’s exit shifts attention to what lies ahead, as the technical team and football authorities assess the AFCON campaign and begin preparations for upcoming competitions.
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