Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has urged South Africa to adopt a development model similar to Nigeria’s, insisting it is key to competing more effectively at the highest level of African football following their AFCON 2025 campaign.
The Belgian tactician admitted that South Africa entered the tournament at a disadvantage, particularly when compared with leading nations whose squads are largely made up of Europe-based players.
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According to Broos, countries like Nigeria benefit immensely from having the majority of their players competing weekly in top European leagues, where they are exposed to higher intensity, superior tactical demands, and stronger competition.
He noted that such exposure plays a vital role in preparing players physically and mentally for major tournaments like the Africa Cup of Nations, giving them an edge when facing Africa’s elite sides.
Broos stressed that for Bafana Bafana to consistently challenge for honours on the continental stage, there must be a deliberate and structured effort to create more pathways for locally based players to secure moves to Europe.
He explained that regular involvement in elite leagues would help South African players sharpen their skills, improve decision-making under pressure, and develop the competitive mentality required at top-level tournaments.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria, whose squad is predominantly Europe-based, were cited as a clear example of how sustained exposure to top-flight football can translate into stronger and more consistent performances at AFCON.
Broos concluded that emulating Nigeria’s player development pathway could be a decisive step in repositioning South Africa as a major force in African football going forward.
