Gayton McKenzie. Photo Credit: US Embassy South Africa/ Flickr
Following South Africa’s elimination in the round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie
has spoken openly about the Bafana Bafana’s performance, Morocco’s organization of the tournament, and controversial comments made
by head coach Hugo Broos.
After sending an official letter to his Moroccan counterpart, Mohamed Saad Berrada, thanking Morocco for its hosting of the
competition, McKenzie addressed the media to reflect on South Africa’s 2–1 defeat against Cameroon in Marrakech.
“We Lost Against Ourselves”
Analyzing the match, McKenzie admitted that South Africa had opportunities to change the course of the game early on.
“We lost against ourselves. In the first fifteen minutes, we could have finished the match. We could have told the opponent,
‘bye bye, we are going through.’ These things happen, and I am glad the players learned a lesson they will never repeat.”
The minister described the elimination as a learning experience for a South African team that finished the group stage with two
wins and one defeat against Egypt before falling to the Indomitable Lions.
High Praise for Morocco’s Organization
McKenzie then delivered strong praise for the organization of the 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, hosted by Morocco.
“This has been the best AFCON ever. The Moroccans organized the best Africa Cup of Nations in history, I can guarantee it.
The stadiums, the facilities, everything was brilliant and perfectly arranged.”
He went further, highlighting Morocco’s ability to showcase Africa on the global stage.
“The Moroccans did an excellent job, and I am proud of Morocco. They proved to the world that Africa is ready to host the biggest
events on the planet.”
McKenzie Reprimands Hugo Broos and Issues Apology
The South African minister also addressed the controversial remarks made by head coach Hugo Broos, who had complained about a lack
of atmosphere and criticized the tournament’s organization.
“Yes, we felt the energy of the AFCON. I was uncomfortable with the coach’s comments, and I will be direct: I did not like them.
You cannot go to another country and insult it during a press conference on its own soil.”
McKenzie firmly rejected Broos’ claims, insisting that the atmosphere was vibrant throughout the tournament.
“What he said was not true. We were in the streets, we saw the vibe, the beautiful atmosphere of AFCON. It was wrong of him, and
I apologize to Morocco for these remarks. You cannot insult people in front of the whole world when they welcomed you with open arms.”
He concluded by reiterating his admiration for Morocco’s hosting, calling it “the best Africa Cup of Nations of my life.”
Your full AFCON 2025 guide on MoroccoBeat
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