Hugo Broos: Bafana Coach Dismisses Retirement Speculation Ahead of AFCON 2023 Semi-final vs Nigeria

• South Africa head coach Hugo Bross is not thinking about retirement
• The Belgian is confident of the progress he is making with Bafana Bafana
• Broos' men take on Nigeria in the AFCON 2023 semi-final at Stade Bouake

South Africa head coach, Hugo Broos, has refuted retirement rumours following the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The 71-year-old, whose career spans over five decades, hinted before the tournament that his tenure with the Bafana Bafana team might mark the end of his coaching journey.

Despite facing criticism during his time coaching in Cameroon, Broos has found similarities in the reception from the public and media since his appointment with the South African men's national football team two years ago.

Now, as they find themselves just two games away from potentially clinching a second AFCON title, the Belgian remains undeterred despite few considering them genuine contenders.

Moses Simon Issues Warning to Cameroon As Nigeria Gears Up for Last 16 AFCON 2023 Classic

Football

During the pre-match press conference ahead of the semi-final clash with Nigeria, Broos addressed questions from Belgian journalists about the possibility of this being his last match or press conference.

"Not at all, why should I think of that? We’re still not at the end," said Broos, as quoted by Idiski Times.

Broos is the only manager among the remaining four with AFCON-winning experience, achieving victory with the Indomitable Lions in 2017. His coaching record includes five wins, five draws, and a single loss in 11 games over two editions of the AFCON.

While South Africa may not dazzle with flashy football, they are well-organized defensively and pose a threat to any opponent. Broos has confidence in his team's abilities, including goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, even in a potential penalty shootout against the Super Eagles.

Morocco vs South Africa: Hugo Broos Says Bafana Bafana Eyeing Victory for a Shot at AFCON 2023 Final

Football

The Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper made four crucial saves in a nail-biting AFCON quarter-final clash against Cape Verde on Saturday, February 3, as reported by the BBC.

His historic performance matched Andre Arendse's record from the 1996 tournament in South Africa.

South Africa face Nigeria on Wednesday, February 6, at the Stade Bouake, with Broos and his team aiming to continue their surprising run in the tournament.

Williams downplays personal glory after penalty heroics

Sports Brief reported when Ronwen Williams humbly deflected praise despite his penalty heroics against Cape Verde.

Williams remained focused on the team's collective effort, stressing the unity and determination displayed throughout the game.

He accepted the individual accolade on behalf of the entire team.