Broos Closes In on Historic Bafana Bafana Record

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos stands on the verge of a major milestone. He could soon become the most-capped coach in South Africa’s history.

The Belgian tactician may break the record this week. That depends on whether the planned friendly against Jamaica proceeds.

Broos has already stated his future plans. He confirmed that he will leave the national team after the FIFA World Cup 2026.

World Cup to Mark Broos’ Farewell

The veteran coach has at least four matches remaining in charge. These include the Jamaica friendly and South Africa’s three Group A fixtures.

According to Flashscore, Broos will reach 56 matches if the Jamaica game takes place. He could then finish on 59 matches during the World Cup.

That total would move him past Shakes Mashaba’s record of 58 matches.

Broos, now 74, has transformed Bafana Bafana since his appointment in May 2021.

He has overseen 55 matches so far. During that period, South Africa recorded 26 victories and 21 draws.

The team suffered only eight defeats. Furthermore, Bafana scored 80 goals and conceded 44.

His current tenure already ranks as the longest in the national team’s history. He surpassed the mark previously set by the late Clive Barker.

South Africa has often changed coaches quickly. Therefore, few expected Broos to remain for five years.

His spell with Bafana Bafana is also among the longest of his career. Only his six seasons at Club Brugge lasted longer.

Despite recent success, South Africa’s preparations have faced setbacks.

Visa complications delayed the squad’s departure to Mexico. However, Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie expects the team to leave on Monday.

As a result, uncertainty remains around the Jamaica friendly.

In addition, players need time to adjust to conditions. They will prepare at a high-altitude training camp in Pachuca.

Bafana Bafana begin their World Cup campaign against co-hosts Mexico on 11 June.

They then face the Czech Republic on 18 June. Their final group match comes against South Korea on 24 June.

If South Africa advances, Broos could extend his record further.

More importantly, he could end his Bafana Bafana journey with a historic achievement.

Thursday, 11 June: Mexico vs South Africa, Estadio Azteca, Mexico City – 21:00 (SA time)

Thursday, 18 June: Czech Republic vs South Africa, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta – 18:00 (SA time)

Thursday, 25 June: South Africa vs South Korea, Estadio BBVA, Guadalupe – 03:00 (SA time)

Coach	Played	Won	Drawn	Lost	GF	GA
Shakes Mashaba	58	32	21	5	94	40
Hugo Broos	55	26	21	8	80	44
Stuart Baxter	52	23	13	16	78	58
Clive Barker	43	22	9	12	57	38
Carlos Alberto Parreira	36	16	13	7	49	25