South Africa coach Hugo Broos defends team amid travel delay before Canada match

South Africa’s "Bafana Bafana" secured a place in the 2026 World Cup round of 16 after a 1‑0 victory over South Korea in Monterrey. Coach Hugo Broos criticised FIFA for refusing the team’s request to fly directly to Los Angeles, forcing them to return to their training base in Pachuca, Hidalgo, Mexico before a four‑hour flight to the United States. Broos said the decision was “a bit annoying” and that the penalty imposed on midfielder Themba Zwane was “too harsh.”

Broos emphasized that recovery now outweighs training, stating, “Recovery is the most important thing,” and added that the squad had “shamed the big mouths” who doubted them. He expressed confidence ahead of Sunday’s knockout clash with co‑host Canada at Los Angeles Stadium, noting the team’s improved fitness and morale after the win.