AFCON 2025: Doctor Khumalo’s verdict on Bafana Bafana’s chances

AFCON 1996 champion Doctor Khumalo has identified the unique, possession-based “South African way” of football as the key element that makes Bafana Bafana a continental challenge.

As coach Hugo Broos prepares his side for the upcoming 2025 AFCON in Morocco, the Kaizer Chiefs icon believes this distinct tactical style is the engine of their success.

Following an impressive bronze-medal run at the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast, Khumalo is convinced that adherence to this national style is what will frustrate rivals and propel Bafana Bafana even further.

Bafana Bafana kicks off their Group B campaign on December 22nd against Angola in Marrakesh, followed by a heavyweight clash with Egypt in Agadir, before concluding the group stage against Zimbabwe.

The Bafana AFCON Tactical Edge: Possession and Rotation

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Bafana Bafana completing the final measurements of the suits they will wear at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco this month.#BafanaPride@10bet_ZA @CastleLagerSA @SABC_Sport @Shield_ZA pic.twitter.com/iww7DDDdhy

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Khumalo argues that the team’s trademark high ball-rotation and tactical discipline—a style perfected by local giants like Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates—makes them virtually “unstoppable.”

“We’re playing South African football, and we actually… frustrate our opponents,” Khumalo explained. “If you look at [their] combinational play, the rotation of the ball in possession, it frustrates opponents.”

He specifically cited regional powerhouse Nigeria as a nation that has historically struggled to cope with this fluid approach, often favouring aggression over tactical nuance.

“One of the countries that I know very well, until today, are frustrated is Nigeria because they are aggressive and all that.”

Khumalo highlighted a recent display of Bafana’s mastery of the ball, recalling a passage of play: “Our players, when they played [against] Zambia, from our goalkeeper to their final third, they had 10 touches without Zambia touching the ball.”

Mokoena: The Midfield Maestro

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has shifted training up a gear as the team continues with preparations ahead of Tuesday’s friendly international against Ghana, and the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco later this month.#BafanaPride@10bet_ZA @CastleLagerSA @SABC_Sport pic.twitter.com/B3V1t5pqO3

— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) December 12, 2025

The 1996 hero stressed the instrumental role of key players, particularly dynamic midfielder Teboho Mokoena, in executing this game plan.

“The rotation of the ball and with Mokoena in the middle of the park, very instrumental, this is why Africa will have a problem when it comes to containing South Africa,” Khumalo asserted.

Khumalo concluded that Bafana possesses the necessary ‘character’ and the successful tactical framework to build on their AFCON 2023 success, potentially setting their sights on the final in Morocco.

“Bafana Bafana were marvellous to watch. I must say that they didn’t disappoint, and in the Ivory Coast, they got third position, but I strongly believe that if they can focus and play the kind of game they enjoy, I think they will go up to the finals,” he concluded.