Modiba Wants Broos To Stay As South Africa Look Beyond Historic World Cup Run

South Africa defender Aubrey Modiba has urged Hugo Broos to remain as Bafana Bafana head coach, insisting the veteran Belgian has transformed the national team and still has unfinished business at next year’s Africa Cup of Nations.

Broos’ future has become uncertain following South Africa’s heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Canada in the Round of 32, where Stephen Eustáquio scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner to end Bafana’s best-ever FIFA World Cup campaign.

Although Broos had repeatedly suggested before the tournament that this would be his final World Cup, he declined to confirm his departure after Sunday’s defeat.

“It’s not clever to take decisions when you’re disappointed,” the 74-year-old said. “We’ll see in the next days what I’ll do for the future. For sure, this is my last World Cup.”

His comments have fuelled hopes that he could remain in charge through the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, and Modiba believes the South African Football Association should do everything possible to retain him.

“I hope he stays, I hope he stays,” Modiba said.

“He’s still got a little unfinished business with the AFCON. He’s had a very positive impact and, if we’re being honest, he’s changed South African football.

“We haven’t properly qualified for these major tournaments before, but he’s changed that.”

Broos has overseen a remarkable revival since taking charge, guiding South Africa to the AFCON semi-finals in 2024 before leading the country into the World Cup knockout stages for the first time.

After losing their opening group match 2-0 to Mexico, Bafana recovered impressively with a draw against Czechia before defeating South Korea to reach the last 32.

Despite dominating possession against Canada, South Africa failed to capitalise on their chances before suffering late heartbreak.

Modiba believes Broos has transformed not only results but also the mentality within the squad.

“He’s changed the mentality of the players and the way we approach games because right now we don’t fear anyone,” he added.

“We believe in ourselves and believe we can compete with any team.”