Former Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane has showered Hugo Broos with praise following South Africa’s historic FIFA World Cup triumph over South Korea, but it was Orlando Pirates midfielder Thalente Mbatha who he believes deserves the biggest applause.
Broos masterminded a famous 1-0 victory that sent Bafana Bafana into the World Cup knockout stages for the first time in the country’s history, and Mosimane believes it was a tactical masterclass from the Belgian coach.
Speaking on Smash Sports, Mosimane said Broos showed his vast experience by responding to criticism with actions instead of words.
“This game was a tactical masterclass from Hugo Broos,” said Mosimane. “He also showed humility and respect.
“There were many questions about the way we started the World Cup and the shape we were using, but he listened, made the necessary adjustments and got it right.”
Mosimane said Broos deserves credit for returning to the system that has brought Bafana success over the past few years.
“He is an experienced coach. He corrected what needed to be corrected without being arrogant,” added Mosimane.
“He started Relebohile Mofokeng in midfield, with Oswin Appollis and Thapelo Maseko providing width, while keeping one striker up front, and everything worked.”
However, it was Mbatha’s performance in midfield that truly impressed Mosimane.
With Teboho Mokoena suspended, Mbatha partnered Sphephelo Sithole in the heart of midfield and produced a disciplined display that kept South Korea under control.
“But the master of them all was Thalente Mbatha,” Mosimane declared.
“When he plays, you hardly notice him because he quietly does his job. But when he’s missing, that’s when you realise just how important he is. He was the unsung hero of this victory.”