Hugo Broos: The Belgian Mastermind Reaches 50 as Bafana Bafana Chase AFCON Glory

When Bafana Bafana step onto the pitch to take on Angola at the Grand Stade de Marrakech on Monday, 22 December 2025, all eyes will be on the players but the man in the dugout will be marking a milestone of his own.

Hugo Broos, the veteran Belgian coach who has steered South Africa’s senior men’s national team for more than four years, will lead the side for the 50th time as they open their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign against Angola. Kick-off is at 19:00 (South African time).

For Broos, this moment is more than just a number. It’s a testament to resilience, vision, and the steady rebuilding of a team that was once struggling to find its identity. Appointed on 5 May 2021, Broos inherited a side ranked 75th in the world and burdened by inconsistency. His first match, a thrilling 3-2 win over Uganda at Orlando Stadium, set the tone for a tenure that has transformed Bafana Bafana into genuine contenders on the continental stage.

“Congratulations to coach Hugo for reaching this milestone,” said SAFA President Dr Danny Jordaan. “His leadership has brought pride back to South African football.”

Hugo broos and Danny Jordaan — Image – Safa

From Rebuilding to Rising

Fast forward to December 2025, and the numbers tell a compelling story: 49 matches, 24 wins, 19 draws, and just six defeats.

Under Broos, South Africa climbed to 61st in the FIFA rankings, earned a bronze medal at AFCON 2024 in Côte d’Ivoire, and, perhaps most impressively, secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in October this year. That achievement alone speaks volumes about the progress made under his watch.

Broos also etched his name into local football history earlier this year when he surpassed the late Clive Barker’s record as Bafana Bafana’s longest-serving coach.

Barker famously led South Africa to their only AFCON title in 1996, but Broos now stands as the custodian of a new era, one defined by tactical discipline, defensive solidity, and a belief that South Africa can compete with Africa’s elite.

Neil Tovey lifts AFCON 1996 title for South Africa.

Big Wins, Bigger Dreams

The Belgian mentor’s tenure has been punctuated by emphatic victories: a 4-0 demolition of Sierra Leone, a similar scoreline against Namibia at AFCON 2024, and a stunning 5-0 rout of Congo Brazzaville in qualifying for this year’s tournament. These results have not only boosted confidence but also signaled a shift in mentality, Bafana Bafana are no longer underdogs; they are a team with ambition.

At 73, Broos has already announced that he will step down after the World Cup in 2026. But before that farewell, there is unfinished business. AFCON 2025 in Morocco offers a chance to build on last year’s podium finish and perhaps even dream of repeating the heroics of 1996.

Hugo broos Bafana Bafana 1 — Image – Safa

Hugo Broos’ Top Five Matches

1. SA 3-2 Uganda (June 2021)
His first game in charge, a thrilling friendly win that set the tone for his tenure.

2. SA 2-1 Morocco (AFCON Qualifier, June 2023)
A statement victory against one of Africa’s giants, proving Bafana could compete at the highest level.

3. SA 4-0 Namibia (AFCON 2024)
A dominant group-stage performance that showcased attacking flair and defensive strength.

4. SA 5-0 Congo Brazzaville (AFCON Qualifier, March 2025)
A ruthless display that underlined Bafana’s growing confidence and firepower.

5. Nigeria 1-1 SA (AFCON 2024 Semi-final)
A tense battle that ended in heartbreak on penalties, but confirmed Bafana’s resurgence on the continental stage.