Broos explains why he needs Pirates knocked out of Carling Cup

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has made a shocking confession: he is actively wishing for an Orlando Pirates defeat in their upcoming Carling Knockout Cup semi-final against Richards Bay FC.

The Buccaneers are set to battle the Natal Rich Boyz this Saturday at the Moses Mabhida Stadium. But for Broos, the result of this crucial cup tie has huge implications for South Africa’s preparations for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.

The Problem: A Ticking Clock

Pirates are expected to contribute a large contingent of players to the national squad. Broos recently called up nine Pirates players for the upcoming international friendly against Zambia, underscoring their importance to the Bafana setup.

The conflict arises because the Carling Knockout final is scheduled for December 6. This date is only two days before Bafana Bafana players are expected to report for the AFCON camp on December 8.

Broos has been vocal in his frustration with the Premier Soccer League (PSL) over the lack of cooperation in postponing fixtures to grant his players essential rest before the taxing continental tournament.

Broos Weighs In On Pirates’ Cup Run

The 2017 AFCON-winning coach openly admitted he wants the Soweto giants out of the competition so his core players can recover.

“I asked now to stop the competition [Carling Knockout] on the 4th of December, but no, they have to play the final of that Carling Cup thing on the 6th,” Broos explained.

“So, I am very happy. I’m sorry I’m saying that, but I am happy that [Mamelodi] Sundowns are out and that [Kaizer] Chiefs are out. So, I hope that maybe Pirates can be out and then the guys can have a bit of some days’ rest.”

The Belgian highlighted that a similar lack of foresight crippled preparation for the last AFCON.

“It is so difficult if you ask months before the programme is made… they didn’t do it two years ago, they didn’t do it now,” Broos lamented.

For Broos, a Pirates exit this weekend means a few precious days of rest for his likely starting XI, which he sees as critical for a successful campaign in Morocco.