Hugo Broos outlines historic World Cup target for Bafana

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has laid down a marker for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, outlining a bold ambition to lead South Africa into the knockout stages for the first time in the nation’s history.

South Africa finds themselves in a challenging Group A, where they are currently slated to face tournament co-hosts Mexico and South Korea. The final spot in the group will be filled by the winner of a high-stakes UEFA playoff featuring the Czech Republic, Denmark, and North Macedonia.

While Bafana has graced the world stage on three previous occasions (1998, 2002, and 2010), they have never progressed beyond the group phase. The 2010 tournament remains a particularly sore point, as South Africa became the first host nation to exit in the opening round.

The upcoming tournament features an expanded 48-team format, which offers a broader path to the Round of 32. In addition to the top two finishers in each of the 12 groups, the eight best third-placed teams will also advance—a mathematical lifeline Broos is keen to exploit.

Addressing recent critiques regarding his focus on a potential third-place finish, the Belgian tactician clarified that his primary goal is progression, regardless of the ranking.

‘We Are Aiming for the Top’: – Broos on Bafana’s Target

Speaking to the media, Broos emphasised that while the traditional “Big Countries” may scoff at a third-place target, the new format changes the tactical landscape for nations looking to upset the status quo.

“I’m not always understood when I mention third place [in the group stages],” Broos explained. “Previously, only the first and second moved on. Now, third place counts. If you manage a draw and a win, you have a massive chance to go through. That is a vital opportunity for countries that aren’t considered ‘giants.’”

Broos was quick to dismiss any notion that Bafana is playing for “scraps,” insisting that the team will push for the top of the table.

“If we have a chance to finish first or second, we will take it. Mexico and Denmark won’t be thinking about third place, and neither are we—we are thinking about one and two. That is for sure.”

For Broos, the strategy is about maintaining motivation until the final whistle of the group stage. He believes the expanded format ensures that every match remains meaningful.

“You have to fight until the very last game. That final match can be your pass to survive the group stages. Our goal is clear: we want to pass the group phase. Whether we do it as first, second, or third doesn’t matter. We want to advance.”

If Broos succeeds, he will write a new chapter in South African football history, finally breaking the “group stage curse” that has haunted the 1996 AFCON champions for nearly three decades.