Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has the mockers on Orlando Pirates, hopes they are KO’d in Carling semi-final

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has stirred up some controversy by expressing his hope that Orlando Pirates will be eliminated from the Carling Knockout this weekend.

This unexpected statement comes as Pirates prepare to face Richards Bay in Saturday’s semi-final at the Moses Mabhida Stadium. Broos has a strong interest in the club, as his latest national squad selection includes nine Pirates —the most by any PSL club.

The Pirates players are Sipho Chaine, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Thalente Mbatha, Sipho Mbule, Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, Evidence Makgopa and Masindi Nemtajela, .

“I’m sorry to say this, but I am happy that Sundowns are out and that Chiefs are out,” said Broos, reflecting on the elimination of the two teams in the Carling Knockout’s earlier round.

“I hope maybe that Pirates can be out so the guys can have a bit of rest,” he elaborated, candidly reflecting the pressures he faces as he aims to lead Bafana Bafana to success in the upcoming AFCON tournament, starting in December. Broos seeks to ensure that his squad is fully fit and battle-ready by the time the team leaves for Morocco on December 17.

This unexpected development occurs as Broos aims to have his players well-rested for the pre-AFCON camp in Johannesburg, starting on Monday, December 8. The Carling Knockout final is on Saturday, December 6.

Should Pirates defeat Richards Bay on Saturday, they will be in action on that day. There is the common occurrence of players suffering injuries ahead of training camp, which puts the Pirates at risk of reporting unfit for the week-long camp on December 8.

Likely, the bulk of the Broos’ AFCON squad will again be from Pirates.

“Last AFCON was even worse; they played on the 31st of December, and we started preparations on the 4th of January,” Broos reflected, emphasising the challenges of managing player readiness and fitness. His concern is understandable as fatigue and injuries could significantly hinder Bafana Bafana’s performance on the continental stage.

As Pirates gears up for their clash against Richards Bay, fans and analysts alike will undoubtedly keep a watchful eye on the match, knowing that the outcome could impact the national squad’s preparation for a key international challenge ahead.