Evidence Makgopa of South Africa applaud fans with team-mates during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON match between South Africa and Cameroon at El Barid Stadium in Rabat, Morocco on 04 January 2026 ©Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix
Tuesday Jan 06, 2026. 11:00
Former Egyptian international Mohamed Aboutrika has reveled in South Africa’s exit from the Africa Cup of Nations, taking aim at head coach Hugo Broos.
Bafana Bafana fell 2-1 to Cameroon in their round of 16 clash in Rabat on Sunday, seeing them sent home while the Indomitable Lions marched on.
Aboutrika, who won two AFCON titles and has registered 94 caps with the Pharaohs, could not hide his satisfaction about South Africa’s elimination and criticised Broos.
The Belgian tactician made earlier comments about the tournament, particularly its logistical organisation but also the feeling in Morocco.
“There is no typical AFCON vibe. I don’t feel it here,” said Broos.
In response, Aboutrika hit back, making his disagreement with Broos’ comments perfectly clear.
“Cameroon played three very tough matches in the group stage, and their coach knows exactly what he is doing,” said Aboutrika, per MSN.
“South Africa’s only real tough test in the group stage was against Egypt. I wanted South Africa to be eliminated from the tournament because of the statements made by their coach, Hugo Broos. He is arrogant and his comments are provocative.
“Everyone praised the stadiums, but he was the only one who criticised them. The style he wants to play is above the level of his players. You are not Spain. He needs to focus more on defensive balance,” he said.
While Bafana Bafana head home, Cameroon will face hosts Morocco in the quarterfinals at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Friday.
By Nic Gleeson