Hugo Broos names Morocco as AFCON favourites, urges caution for Bafana

Speaking ahead of Bafana Bafana's Group B opener against Angola, Broos suggested that the tournament will likely see fewer surprises compared to the last edition.

"I don't think the big countries will make the same mistakes they did two years ago," Broos was quoted by Afrik-Foot.

"Many were eliminated early - Egypt, Cameroon, Ghana, Morocco - and that won't happen now. They've learned from that experience."

Broos, who led South Africa to a bronze medal in Ivory Coast in 2023, warned that the competition will be tougher this time.

"Normally, the top teams make it through the group stages, which raises the level in the knockout rounds. Winning this AFCON will be very challenging," he said.

Highlighting Morocco's credentials, Broos pointed to their home advantage and World Cup semi-final pedigree.

"If you ask me who the favourite is, it's Morocco. They are a strong, well-prepared team, and playing at home makes them even more formidable. For the rest of us, it will be a serious challenge."

While cautious about declaring his own squad as contenders, Broos emphasized a measured, game-by-game approach.

"I'm not going to say South Africa is one of the favourites yet. Let's see who's still standing after the group stages," he said.

Bafana Bafana head into the tournament with respect for the giants of African football but with hopes of building momentum from their opening games, aiming to navigate a tough Group B with Angola, Egypt, and Zimbabwe.