The recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign has not only marked a significant milestone for South Africa’s national football team, Bafana Bafana, but it has also sparked considerable interest in the players from various quarters, according to head coach Hugo Broos.
Despite falling short of securing a spot in the final after a heart-wrenching penalty shootout defeat to Nigeria, Bafana Bafana’s journey to the semi-finals has caught the attention of potential suitors eyeing the talents displayed on the pitch.
“They’ve shown something, and I felt that, along with the players, we wanted to show something, and those players now also know and the interest there is in some players,” Broos shared during a press conference on Friday, February 9th.
Broos praised the adaptability and quality exhibited by his players at the tournament, emphasizing the invaluable experience gained from competing at such a high level. He expressed optimism about the players’ potential for further growth, particularly if exposed to similar challenges regularly.
The spotlight shines particularly bright on standout performers like Mamelodi Sundowns’ goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams, who made history by saving four penalties in a single AFCON match. Williams’s exceptional performance has undoubtedly raised his profile and garnered interest from potential suitors.
Teboho Mokoena, another key figure in midfield for Bafana Bafana, showcased his prowess by scoring crucial goals and earning a Man of the Match accolade. Alongside him, veteran playmaker Themba Zwane has consistently delivered standout performances, earning him the Man of the Match title twice during the tournament.
While discussions about the future of these players continue behind the scenes, the immediate focus for Bafana Bafana remains on securing a medal as they prepare to face DR Congo in the third-place playoff on Saturday, February 10th.