Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos was an animated presence at training on Friday as South Africa began preparing for a crucial 2026 Fifa World Cup clash against Czechia in Atlanta on Thursday. After the disappointment of their opening 2-0 defeat to Mexico, Broos was seen actively involved in drills, giving demonstrations and shouting instructions as he tried to lift the squad and sharpen their focus for a match described as a must-win.
The loss to Mexico drew criticism over Broos’s tactics, particularly his use of a 3-5-2 system that shifted into a 5-3-2 shape under pressure. The result has raised doubts about South Africa’s chances of progressing to the last 32, and there are increasing calls for the coach to return to the 4-2-3-1 formation that helped the team during World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations qualifying. That setup, with a back four, two holding midfielders, three attackers and a lone striker, had previously brought more balance and attacking fluency.
Broos will be forced into at least one change after red cards for Sphephelo Sithole, who started against Mexico, and substitute Themba Zwane. The coach must now decide whether to keep faith with his current approach or make broader changes to personnel and structure against a Czechia side known for its physicality and aerial strength.
A major talking point has been the possible inclusion of young attacker Relebohile Mofokeng, who many supporters believe should be given a chance in the starting line-up. Broos has previously used Mofokeng sparingly, but Zwane’s suspension has opened the door for the Orlando Pirates playmaker. Advocates argue that the 21-year-old needs sustained exposure at the highest level to grow into a bigger role, especially after South Africa struggled to link midfield and attack against Mexico.
Against Mexico, Broos selected a midfield trio of Teboho Mokoena, Jayden Adams and Sithole, but South Africa lacked a natural creator between the lines and the twin strikers, Lyle Foster and Iqraam Rayners, were often isolated. The team’s usual strength has been its ability to play with a playmaker, and many feel Mofokeng can provide the spark needed to unlock defences.
The challenge against Czechia is expected to be different, with the Europeans bringing a more direct and physical style. Midfielder Tomáš Souček and forwards Patrik Schick and Adam Hložek are seen as key threats, especially in the air. South Africa’s defence, featuring Mbekezeli Mbokazi and possible partners Ime Okon, Nkosinathi Sibisi or Olwethu Makhanya, will need to stand up to that test.
Former Bafana midfielder Benedict “Tso” Vilakazi backed the calls for Mofokeng to start and urged the team to play more to its strengths. He also questioned the tactical approach against Mexico, saying players were not used in their most natural positions. Vilakazi suggested a line-up that includes Williams, Modiba, Mudau, Mbokazi, Okon, Mokoena, Adams, Mbatha, Appollis, Mofokeng and Rayners.
