South Africa Coach Criticizes CAN 2025 Organization for Travel Delays

Hugo Broos, the head coach of the South African national football team, has voiced significant concerns regarding the organization of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. His criticisms, often expressed during press conferences, revolve around travel delays affecting the team’s preparation. On January 3, 2026, Broos highlighted these issues as the team prepared for their round of 16 match against Cameroon at Al Medina Stadium in Rabat.

Travel Delays Affecting Team Performance

During the press conference, Broos articulated his frustration with lengthy travel times between their hotel and the training facilities. He noted that the players required 45 minutes just to reach the Mohammed VI complex, which complicated their training schedule. Furthermore, he mentioned a specific incident where the team lost three hours of training time due to travel.

• Travel time to training: 45 minutes each way
• Lost training time: 3 hours (1 hour 15 minutes of training)

Broos expressed disbelief that the organizing committee would allow such arrangements during a major tournament like AFCON. He argued that closer training grounds should have been made available to avoid extensive bus rides that detract from practice time.

Concerns Over Host Nation’s Intentions

Broos hinted at possible malicious intent from the host nation, suggesting that the travel difficulties could affect team performance. “I believe there are training grounds closer than 45 minutes away,” he said, emphasizing the inefficiency of their travel logistics. Despite the complications, he urged his players to focus on their upcoming match against Cameroon.

Reflecting on his previous tenure with the Cameroonian team, which he led to victory in 2017, Broos dismissed any notions of personal rivalry. “Tomorrow’s match is between South Africa and Cameroon, not about me,” he stated, acknowledging Cameroon’s strong squad and the need for his team to perform at their best.

Historical Context

The match against Cameroon presents an opportunity for South Africa, as the national team has not lost to Cameroon since 1992 in a friendly match. Both teams finished second in their respective groups, suggesting an equally matched confrontation.

Looking Ahead

Broos remains committed to focusing on the match, remarking, “No pity, no sentiment; I want to win.” With both teams aiming for advancement in the tournament, the importance of adequate preparation remains critical for South Africa, particularly against a historically competitive opponent like Cameroon.

As the South African team gears up for their clash, the organizational aspects of the AFCON continue to evoke questions about logistics and planning, demonstrating the impact of these factors on team morale and performance.