Can Bafana Bafana Benefit from expanded World Cup? Desailly Weighs In

French football legend Marcel Desailly has thrown his weight behind Bafana Bafana, insisting Hugo Broos’ men could spring a surprise at the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

The former France captain, who lifted the trophy in 1998, was in South Africa this past weekend as part of the World Cup trophy tour. With the expanded 48-team format set to debut in Mexico, Canada, and the USA later this year, Desailly believes Africa’s nine representatives including Bafana have a real shot at making noise on the global stage.

Backing Broos and His Boys

Speaking exclusively to SABC Sport, Desailly praised Broos’ tactical nous and tournament pedigree. “Preparation will be key, and you are lucky you have a smart coach who knows exactly what he’s talking about. He’s tasted victory at a major tournament and led them to third position at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations,” he said.

While quick to admit Bafana are not favourites, Desailly stressed that football thrives on unpredictability. “There is belief and a possibility, and that’s why we love football because you never know. In football you can still produce results if you have that confidence.”

Morocco’s Inspiration, Bafana’s Opportunity

The Chelsea and AC Milan great pointed to Morocco’s historic run to the semifinals in Qatar as proof that African teams can defy the odds. “We are so proud of Morocco for reaching the semifinal of the World Cup for the first time in Africa’s history. Yes, Senegal, Morocco, but Bafana is in the system. We hope they will have that capability of understanding the pressure and transpose it into performance.”

Expanded Format, Expanded Hope

With nine African nations set to feature, Desailly believes the new format is a game-changer. “A new World Cup with a new format, we first have to digest the fact that we have three weeks of group stage before you go to the knockout stage, so let’s see,” he explained.

Dark Horses Beyond Africa

Desailly also tipped Portugal as a potential surprise package. “Apart from Bafana and France, let’s put them aside, I see Portugal, why not? They have a very good squad. They could be the surprise of this World Cup.”