Afcon 2025 : Broos sparks controversy with Morocco claims

As the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations approaches its final stages, many observers praise the organization and infrastructure put in place by Morocco. 

While the tournament records strong attendance and logistical improvements as the rounds progress, South Africa coach Hugo Broos publicly voiced his dissatisfaction, criticizing the atmosphere in the stadiums and describing chaotic access around one match attended by his family. His comments quickly triggered controversy back home and shifted the debate beyond football.

South African sports minister Gayton McKenzie reacted strongly, distancing himself from Broos’ statements and openly apologizing to Morocco. He described the tournament as the best AFCON ever organized, praising the stadiums, overall logistics, and Morocco’s ability to showcase Africa’s readiness for major global events.

“Yes, it’s the best Africa Cup of Nations in history,” he confided, in comments reported by The Herald, before continuing. “I was furious with the Bafana Bafana coach. I was very furious…” he added upon the arrival of the South African players, eliminated by Cameroon in the Round of 16 (1-2). “You don’t go to someone’s country to insult them on their own soil. Nobody should do that. It’s wrong. He (Broos) is staying in hotels. How does he perceive the atmosphere outside? We were in the street and we saw it. I want to apologize to the Moroccans for Broos’s remarks. Hats off to the Moroccans.”

Eliminated by Cameroon in the round of 16, Bafana Bafana now leave the competition amid a tense backdrop, as political authorities firmly defended the host nation and reaffirmed their support for the Moroccan organizers.