Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos expresses his disagreement with Mamalodi Sundowns coach Manqoba Mngqithi’s decision to bench star midfielder Teboho Mokoena.

Mokoena, the 2022/23 PSL Footballer of the Year, showcased his talent with a stellar performance against Congo in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. He scored twice, including a header and a well-placed shot, demonstrating his exceptional abilities.

Despite Mokoena’s impressive form, he has been limited in playing time at Sundowns. This has raised concerns for Broos, who believes Mokoena is a crucial asset to the national team. The coach highlighted Mokoena’s key role in Bafana Bafana’s recent success, including their bronze medal finish at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Broos expressed his admiration for Mokoena’s progress and his belief that the midfielder’s performance against Congo was a clear indication of his ability. He emphasized the importance of actions over words and stated that Mokoena’s performance proved his worth.

“I know Teboho already two years and I think he had his first selection when I became the coach (sic),” said Broos. 

“And the progression that Teboho has made, let’s say in the last two years, is enormous. He became a very good player. I know maybe on Friday he was motivated to show his coach at Sundowns that it is not right to put him on the bench or not to select him.  

“And this is what I like – not words, not talking, just the performance. I said a few days ago that I respect and accept the decision, but I can’t agree with it, and I think he proved why I can’t agree why he is not playing at Sundowns.  

“But okay, this is not our problem. Also, for Khuliso Mudau, I put my confidence in those players because I know what they are, how good they are, and how important they are in the team.”  

While acknowledging Sundowns’ decision, Broos made it clear that he does not agree with it. He expressed his confidence in Mokoena and Mudau, another talented player who has faced limited opportunities at Sundowns.

Broos warned that if the situation at Sundowns does not improve for Mokoena and Mudau, he may be forced to make difficult decisions regarding their future selections for the national team.

“I just pray to God that maybe at Sundowns there is a change of mind, and the guys get opportunities to play because for a long that situation stays, I will have to take decisions that I don’t like to make and let’s hope that doesn’t happen,” vowed Broos.

Bafana Bafana is now traveling to Congo for the return leg of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, which will take place at Stade Alphonse Massamba-Débat in Brazzaville on Tuesday.