Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has admitted that constant travelling and changing time zones are taking a toll on his squad at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. South Africa have already played two matches in the tournament, losing to Mexico in Mexico City before battling to a 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic in Atlanta.
Broos says the demanding travel schedule has made life difficult for players as they continue their campaign.
“You know it’s very exhausting when you see that you have to travel all the time. There is also an issue of different time zones,” said Broos.
“We played in Mexico City, then we played in Atlanta and there was a two-hour difference. Now we are playing in Monterrey and if we advance, we will have to go and play in Los Angeles or Seattle.”
The Belgian tactician believes the challenge will become even greater as the tournament progresses.
“It is exhausting because there still has to be recovery, and it will get more difficult the further the tournament goes,” he explained.
“If you are in three different countries with different time zones, then it is certainly not ideal.”
Broos also highlighted the difficult weather conditions awaiting his side in their crucial clash against South Korea.
“We will be playing in extremely hot conditions tomorrow and that demands a lot of energy from the players,” he said.
“If we advance, we will play again in four days and we will have to travel again.”
The Bafana coach revealed that the team will return to their base camp in Pachuca, Mexico, after the South Korea match before travelling again should they reach the knockout stages.
“We will leave here and go to Pachuca in Mexico, and then travel again to America. It is a bit too much, but that is the concept of this World Cup and we have to adapt.”
“But I can tell you that it is not easy,” concluded Broos.