AFCON Update: Something Not Right In Bafana Bafana Camp – South Africa Legend Insists

AFCON Update: Something Not Right In Bafana Bafana Camp – South Africa Legend Insists

Sampson Adedeji

Bafana Bafana legend Doctor Khumalo has raised concerns over the atmosphere within the South African national team camp ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, suggesting that all may not be well behind the scenes, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Khumalo’s remarks follow similar comments from team captain Ronwen Williams, who recently described the team’s preparation camp as “strange and weird,” further fueling speculation about internal issues within the squad. 

Bafana Bafana’s build-up to the tournament has also been overshadowed by head coach Hugo Broos’ controversial comments about defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi.

Broos’ remarks were widely criticised and perceived by some sections of the public as “racist” and “sexist,” prompting a strong backlash.

The Belgian tactician later read a public statement addressing the controversy, admitting that the accusations had deeply affected him and his family, before offering an apology for his choice of words.

While Khumalo stopped short of detailing the specific problems within the camp, he hinted that unresolved matters are still troubling the players.

Historically, disputes over bonuses have surfaced ahead of major tournaments involving South African national teams, including both Bafana Bafana and Banyana Banyana, and there has so far been no official communication regarding AFCON bonuses for the men’s team.

 “Let’s continue to do what makes us look best on the field,” Khumalo said on SABC2 after a recent match.

“Let’s hope our players are clear-minded, because I heard via the grapevine the camp is not okay. So they are still fighting for something. I hope and wish that when they get there [to Morocco], everything is resolved.”

Despite the reported tension, Bafana Bafana were officially sent off on Wednesday by a delegation from the South African Football Association (SAFA) and Gauteng political leaders as they departed for Morocco.

South Africa will begin their AFCON campaign in six days when they face Angola on Monday, 22 December. They will then take on Egypt on 26 December before rounding off their group-stage fixtures against Zimbabwe on 29 December.