AFCON 2023: Bafana Bafana Coach Hugo Broos Remains Positive Despite Mudau and Mvala Doubts

• Key Bafana Bafana players are doubtful for the AFCON 2023 last-16 clash vs Morocco
• Hugo Broos remains optimistic about Khuliso Mudau's availability despite injury vs Tunisia
• Mothobi Mvala's injury is deemed less severe, with the coach confident player will be ready

Bafana Bafana's hopes for a prosperous Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) last-16 clash against Morocco are facing uncertainty as defender Khuliso Mudau and midfielder Mothobi Mvala are nursing injuries.

However, coach Hugo Broos remains optimistic about their availability.

During the halftime break against Tunisia on Wednesday, January 24, Mudau endured a series of hard tackles that forced him to exit the game.

He is now a significant doubt for the crucial match against the Atlas Lions, pending his response to treatment.

Mvala, who suffered a kick during the Tunisia match, is also under scrutiny. Still, Broos downplayed the severity of his ailment, expressing confidence that he would be ready for the Round of 16 fixture.

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“We had two problems after the game against Tunisia, and the first was Mothobi, who had a kick. It is a bit painful, but it was treated, and I don’t think it will be a big problem for Tuesday,” Broos said, as quoted on Herald Live.

According to Broos, the major problem was Khuliso Mudau, who had initially raised doubts. However, with the treatment he has reportedly received, he is optimistic that the player will be available.

Broos stressed the positive atmosphere within the team camp, highlighting the players' support for each other amid the challenges.

Regarding the team's performance, Broos expressed his happiness at reaching the knockout stages and conveyed his confidence in qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations final. Drawing parallels with his achievements with Cameroon in 2017, he believes in the potential of his current team.

“I’m too happy to qualify for the next round. We had a difficult group, but we did well. We aim to qualify for the final; we have a good team, and I’m very confident," he said, as reported on iDiskiTimes.

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Reflecting on his side's progress, Broos pointed out the positive results in Group E as evidence of their growth over the past year and a half. He also stressed his determination to win every match and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work with a promising team.

Hugo Broos hails Bafana Bafana after AFCON 2023 round of 16 qualification

Sports Brief reported when Hugo Broos lauded his players after qualifying for the knockouts.

The team drew 0-0 against Tunisia in their final group game at the Amadou Gon Coulibaly Stadium in Korhogo.

Broos explained that the team executed all that he asked them to do.