Hugo Broos backs the Afcon restructuring
Hugo Broos, the head coach of South Africa’s national team Bafana Bafana, has weighed in on CAF’s decision to switch the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) from a biennial event to a four-year cycle. In remarks captured during a recent press conference, Broos expressed strong support for the change, arguing that the longer cycle could raise the tournament’s prestige, improve player planning, and provide more stability for national teams as they build long-term projects.
The topic has dominated conversations around African football in recent weeks, with coaches and administrators debating the pros and cons of a less frequent, higher-profile continental competition. Broos’s stance aligns with a broader sentiment in several national camps, where the emphasis is on sustainable development, clearer player availability, and enhanced competitive balance across the national team calendar.
What the coaching staff sees in a longer cycle
Broos highlighted several potential benefits of the four-year Afcon schedule. First, a longer cycle could allow clubs to better assess and integrate players who are balancing intense domestic league commitments with international duties. It could also help national teams coordinate with FIFA World Cup qualifiers and friendlies without the constant disruption that a crowded calendar can bring.
Second, with more time between editions, the Afcon finals tournament could attract stronger sponsorships, media attention, and fan engagement. This has knock-on effects for development programs across the continent, from youth academies to coaching education, all aimed at elevating the standard of play.
Finally, Broos argued that a biennial competition sometimes forces teams to overdose on friendlies and minor tournaments to fill gaps in the schedule. A four-year cycle could encourage more meaningful matches, better tactical planning, and a clearer cycle for players who are juggling club and country duties.
Bafana Bafana eye a landmark win against Egypt
Beyond the structural changes, Broos was asked about upcoming fixtures and the looming challenge of Egypt, one of Africa’s most formidable teams in recent memory. The coach urged his players to seize the moment and secure a victory that would demonstrate South Africa’s growth under his leadership and vindicate the direction CAF has chosen for Afcon.
Egypt, with its rich footballing pedigree and a steady pipeline of talent, represents a stern test for Bafana Bafana. Yet, the coach’s message was clear: approach the match with energy, discipline, and a plan that leverages the technical improvements seen in recent months. A win over Egypt would not only boost South Africa’s confidence but also signal a strong start to their campaign under the four-year Afcon model.
What fans should watch for
Fans should look for how Broos structures his midfield to control tempo and how the team exploits transitional moments against a historically tough opponent. In addition, development in team chemistry, the use of younger players alongside veterans, and the tactical adjustments during crucial qualifiers will be telling indicators of the impact of the new Afcon cycle on the national team’s performance.
Looking ahead: a new era for African football
While opinions remain split among stakeholders, the shift to a four-year Afcon cycle could redefine how African football teams prepare for continental glory. For Bafana Bafana and Hugo Broos, this is a chance to align strategy with a longer horizon, focus on sustainable growth, and build a squad capable of competing with Africa’s top sides over a more extended period. The path to Cairo, Lagos, or Kinshasa may no longer be measured in two-year chunks; instead, it will be about patient development, smarter scheduling, and a relentless pursuit of excellence on and off the pitch.
