Hugo Broos has hailed his ‘history-makers’ after Bafana Bafana secured a monumental 1-0 victory over South Korea on Thursday morning, storming into the knockout rounds of the FIFA World Cup for the first time in South African history!
The historic triumph in Monterrey has propelled South Africa to second place in Group A, setting up a blockbuster Last 32 clash against Canada in Los Angeles this coming Sunday.
An ecstatic Hugo Broos spoke immediately after the final whistle, visibly moved by the achievement.
“I know how it feels but it is difficult to explain. It is a fantastic experience,” said the 74-year-old mentor.
“It was so tough today but we played a very good game and had chances and were tactically very good. It was very difficult for South Korea to find space. We defended well and were dangerous.”
The tactical mastermind confessed that the closing stages of the match were almost too much to bear after Thapelo Maseko broke the deadlock in the 63rd minute.
“The last 20 minutes my heart was beating and I wanted the game to be over as soon as possible!,” Broos admitted with a smile. “This is historical, I am very happy for the guys. What we did in the last five years is amazing.”
Since taking the reins in 2021, Broos has completely revolutionized South African football. After guiding Bafana Bafana to a third-place finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and ending a 24-year World Cup qualification drought, this latest feat cements his legendary status.
Broos credited the historic milestone to the extraordinary brotherhood within the squad.
“When you work together for five years, there is a connection,” the mentor added. “We have worked hard with the coaches and the players — in so many moments they are as much friends as I am a coach telling them what to do. It is a fantastic combination.”