South Africa coach tells critics to ‘shut up’ before second World Cup match | World Cup 2026 News
Broos Defends Tactics Ahead of World Cup Match Against Czechia
Published June 18, 2026
South Africa’s national soccer team coach, Hugo Broos, has addressed criticism regarding his tactical choices in the team’s recent World Cup opener. Prior to the crucial Group A match against Czechia, Broos stated that he remains committed to his approach, despite facing backlash following a defensive strategy that resulted in a 2-0 loss to Mexico.
In the opening game last Thursday, Broos’s tactics drew widespread condemnation, particularly after Bafana Bafana failed to create significant chances and concluded the match with just nine players, following two red cards in the second half. The response from supporters was swift, reflecting disappointment in the team’s performance.
“I have been a coach for 40 years, and criticism is part of the job,” Broos said at a press conference Wednesday. “At the moment, I am criticized. But people must understand that I will continue to do things my way.”
Broos expressed disregard for commentary on social media, urging critics—especially former players turned pundits—to refrain from disparaging the team. “When I look back at what they achieved before, I think it would be better for them to remain quiet,” he remarked.
The veteran coach acknowledged the team’s shortcomings in the match against Mexico, affirming that players are aware of the areas needing improvement. He emphasized the necessity of a win against Czechia to keep South Africa’s hopes of advancing in the tournament alive. Both teams enter the match following losses, as Czechia fell to South Korea in their opening game.
“Our situation is clear,” Broos stated. “If we don’t win tomorrow, our final game against South Korea will mean nothing.”
Broos noted that his non-accusatory approach to player performance has been questioned, but he remains steadfast in not undermining his team publicly. “I don’t like to blame my players in front of a camera. Sometimes you have to lie a little bit as a coach,” he explained.
Despite the recent defeat, Broos expressed optimism about the team’s potential. He indicated that improvements would be made, particularly regarding ball possession, which may signal a shift in tactics for Thursday’s match.
