South Africa coach Hugo Broos has sent a clear message to his players ahead of Tuesday’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier in Abidjan against Benin. The 72-year-old Belgian emphasized that no one has a guaranteed spot in the starting lineup, stating, “No one is guaranteed a regular starting place. We are a family of 23, not 11.” His remarks serve as a reminder that every player must continually prove their worth.
Broos also hinted at possible lineup changes for the upcoming fixture. He noted that promising young talents Relebohile Mofokeng and Jayden Adams—both of whom scored in the recent 2-0 win over Lesotho—might not feature in the matchday six starting eleven. The coach’s cautionary words come amid ongoing boardroom battles in two other groups, adding another layer of pressure as teams vie for a spot at the 2026 World Cup.
South Africa’s head coach Hugo Broos (R) and South Africa’s staff react during the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) 2024 quarter-final football match between Cape Verde and South Africa at the Stade Charles Konan Banny in Yamoussoukro on February 3, 2024. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP)
