South Africa's national football coach, Hugo Broos, has made it clear that Mamelodi Sundowns' hopes of an early release of their players from the national team camp will not be met. This stance comes despite Bafana Bafana having already secured their qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. Broos emphasized his commitment to fielding the strongest team for the upcoming AFCON qualifier against South Sudan on Tuesday, underscoring the importance of finishing as Group K leaders.
Mamelodi Sundowns, one of South Africa's most successful football clubs, are preparing for the Carling Knockout final against Magesi FC, set to take place in Bloemfontein on Saturday. Their coach, Manqoba Mngqithi, expressed concerns regarding the readiness of his key players who are currently on national duty. With only three days between the conclusion of Bafana Bafana's qualifier and the final, Mngqithi fears that his players' late return could impact their preparation and performance.
Broos, however, remained resolute in his decision during a press conference on Monday. "Sundowns players are till tomorrow after the game, players of Bafana, and they stay players of Bafana," he stated firmly, rejecting any notion of releasing the players prematurely. His remarks reinforced his intention to treat the match against South Sudan seriously, not as a mere friendly or formality. He believes that making significant changes could disrupt the team's focus and performance.
The eight players in question—Bathusi Aubaas, Aubrey Modiba, Tebeho Mokwena, Thapelo Morena, Khuliso Mudau, Mothobi Mvala, Iqraam Rayners, and captain Ronwen Williams—form a crucial part of both Bafana Bafana and the Sundowns squad. These players contributed to South Africa’s recent 2-0 victory over Uganda in Kampala, a win that positioned the team at the top of Group K ahead of their final qualifier.
Broos further highlighted the importance of maintaining momentum and pleasing the home crowd, who have shown tremendous support in recent matches. "It's an important game because we want to be first in the group, and we also want to show something... to the big crowd who will be in the stadium tomorrow," he said. He reflected on the positive atmosphere during recent home games in Bloemfontein and Port Elizabeth, where enthusiastic supporters witnessed strong performances and victories from Bafana Bafana.
The upcoming match in Cape Town represents not only a chance to secure the group lead but also an opportunity to continue building team chemistry and confidence ahead of the AFCON finals. For Broos, every match counts in strengthening the national squad and maintaining high standards.
Sundowns, meanwhile, face the challenge of quickly reintegrating their players post-national duty to ensure their readiness for the Carling Knockout final. The club will have to adapt its training and tactical plans to accommodate the players' transition from international play back to club commitments. The outcome of this scheduling tension could influence not only the final's result but also set a precedent for how club and national team priorities are balanced in the future.
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