Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos expressed concerns over the synthetic pitch at Alphonse Massamba-Debat Stadium ahead of Tuesday’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier
With a dominant 5-0 win over Congo under their belt, Bafana Bafana are on the cusp of securing their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
However, coach Hugo Broos has expressed reservations about the synthetic pitch they’ll face in Tuesday’s qualifier against Congo.
While a victory would seal their qualification, Broos emphasized the potential challenges posed by the artificial surface.
Despite the impressive performance against Congo, where Teboho Mokoena netted a brace and Lyle Foster, Bathusi Aubaas, and Iqraam Rayners also contributed to the scoreline, the Belgian tactician remains cautious.
“My only concern is to see the pitch there,” Broos admitted. “It’s a synthetic pitch, and we’ve had bad experiences with them in the past if they’re not maintained well.
“I think of the one in Rwanda—it was really bad. But, if the pitch is like the one in South Sudan, then we’ll be fine.”
Broos also highlighted that Congo would be desperate to avenge their heavy defeat, putting extra pressure on his squad.
“They lost 5-0, and there will be pressure on them to perform. We need to be at our best again,” Broos warned.
Despite the pitch concerns, Broos praised his team’s recent performance. “What can I say after a display like that? It was fantastic—five goals, great rhythm, and modern football.
“This is the level I want to see from my team,” he said proudly, hoping for another strong showing in Brazzaville.