Bafana Bafana coach, Hugo Broos, has set his eyes on a grand farewell—leading South Africa to the 2026 FIFA World Cup before hanging up his managerial boots.The Belgian, who played in the 1986 World Cup, dreams of taking Bafana to North America, marking a fitting conclusion to his career.SABC reports this in a statement from the South African Football Federation on Thursday.However, the road to qualification is far from easy, the 72-year-old coach admitted.
With six decisive qualifiers ahead, Broos is laser-focused on starting strong in March against Lesotho at home and Benin away in Ivory Coast.“Lesotho at home is a must-win,” Broos emphasised, adding that “Benin is stronger than many think, and playing in Ivory Coast won’t be easy. But we’ve had good experiences there, so we can be a little optimistic.”Travel logistics, often a hurdle for African teams, won’t be an issue this time. SAFA has learned from past nightmares of long-haul trips. Now, we use charters, which makes a huge difference,” Broos noted. As the qualification battle intensifies, the coach is pouring everything into this final mission.“I played at a World Cup, but I want to be there as a coach too. Next year, I’ll be 74—it would be the perfect way to end my career,” he said.With crucial fixtures against Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Rwanda, and another clash with Lesotho later in the year, Broos knows every game is a step closer to his dream. Whether he bows out on the grandest stage or not, one thing is certain—he’s giving it everything he’s got, SABC stated.PUNCH Online reports that the qualification continues in the beginning of March, and then in September and October.In March, Bafana has a home clash against Lesotho and an away match in the Ivory Coast, against Benin. In September, Bafana will face Lesotho away, and Nigeria at home, and then in October, it will be Zimbabwe away and Rwanda at home.