Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos says the confrontation between his side and their Nigerian counterparts during their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Bloemfontein is all part of the game.
Bafana drew with the Super Eagles to edge closer to qualifying for the global event to be hosted in the USA, Canada and Mexico next year. The result saw the 1996 African champions remain in pole position in Group C with 17 points in eight encounters while Nigeria is in third with 11 points after Benin reclaimed second spot with 14 points having hammered Lesotho 4-0.
Meanwhile, at some point during the game, tempers fled to a point where both benches confronted each other with match officials having to diffuse the situation.
Broos admitted after the game that he could have reacted better however he wants to go to the World Cup.
“You know those are the emotions of the game and sometimes when I see pictures what I’m doing I’m telling myself ‘Come on guy’ but yeah you are nervous, you are tense,” said Broos.
“Honestly we got I think three yellow cards and Nigerians one. That is not normal, I’m very sorry, that is not normal.
“And then yes, you are angry, you shout, all those players of Nigeria went to the referee complaining and then I react also by doing this. But I don’t have to do that, I know that.
“But yeah, what do you want, I want to win, I want to go to America next year (Laughs).”
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