Hugo Broos explains why he chose to take 25 players with him to the AFCON 2025 finals! | OneFootball

The Belgian is preparing for the tournament in the best possible way.

Hugo Broos explains why he chose to take 25 players with him to the AFCON 2025 finals!

South Africa's national team head coach, Hugo Broos, has clarified the rationale behind selecting a 25-player roster for the upcoming African Cup of Nations in Morocco. The tournament commences on December 21st, concluding on January 18th, 2026. Drawn into Group B alongside Egypt, Zimbabwe, and Angola, Bafana Bafana will begin their quest for a second continental title—their first since 1996—against Angola on December 22nd. This follows a strong third-place finish in the previous edition, which has elevated hopes for the squad.

Broos's final selection includes both expected names and notable omissions, with vice-captain Themba Zwane, striker Iqraam Rayners, and in-form attacker Thembinkosi Lorch among those left out. Instead of traveling with the traditional extended squad, the Belgian tactician has opted for a streamlined group, leaving three reserve players on standby back home.

Explaining this strategic choice, Broos emphasized the need for efficient preparation while ensuring readiness for any contingencies. "We will ask them to stay in shape, to train and not as usual. To keep in good condition, because at any moment something can happen and we have to make a plan," he stated during the squad announcement.

He further detailed the logistical reasoning, adding, "That’s why I selected three players to be on standby. I don’t want to take them with me because then you would have 28 players in training sessions, and it’s not easy to work like that."

Broos expressed a dual hope regarding the reserves: "That’s why I will ask them to remain on standby. Let’s hope we don’t need them because that would mean we have a problem with an injury. But on the other hand, I hope for them that there will still be a possibility to come to Morocco."