Media Team
Hugo Broos, the head coach of Bafana Bafana, praised his squad for holding their own against Nigeria’s Super Eagles in a hard-fought 1-1 draw in Bloemfontein on Tuesday.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier was an intense battle, with William Troost-Ekong scoring an own goal in the 25th minute to give South Africa the advantage. Nigeria equalized just before halftime thanks to Calvin Bassey’s strong header.
Broos admitted he had cautioned his team beforehand about Nigeria’s physical approach.
“It unfolded exactly as I predicted—highly physical, with Nigeria pushing harder. In the second half, they relied on power plays, but we stood firm,” Broos told SABC Sport.
“We matched their intensity. I prepared the players: if skillful play isn’t enough, they must fight. They delivered. In the second half, they contested every ball, every inch. Some were drained yet kept sprinting—proof of their commitment.”
The Belgian coach stressed the significance of the draw for their World Cup ambitions.
“This squad aims for the World Cup. Tonight was pivotal. Nigeria remain on six points, but with another win, we secure our spot.”
Broos also noted the team’s evolution, contrasting it with earlier shortcomings.
“A few years back, we’d lose such matches. Today, we displayed maturity. Our play wasn’t perfect, but unity and grit carried us. We embraced the physical challenge, proving what collective effort can achieve.”
