Broos slams CAF over Senegal AFCON decision

March 19, 2026 53

Bafana Bafana coach, Hugo Broos has, criticised the Confederation of African Football (CAF), accusing the body of inconsistency in its decision-making.

Broos was reacting to the CAF Appeals Board’s controversial decision to strip Senegal of their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, which they had won 1-0 against Morocco in a dramatic final on January 18.

“What I can say is CAF have shown again there is no consistency in decisions,” Broos said.

He was speaking after announcing his 23-man squad for Bafana Bafana’s upcoming friendlies against Panama in Durban on March 27 and in Cape Town on March 31.

“It is painful for Senegal to lose the trophy. There is a rule that if you leave the pitch you forfeit the game and it’s done. [But] Why don’t you do it [make the ruling] earlier, [rather than] wait for two months?”

He also pointed to what he described as inconsistent application of rules, citing Bafana Bafana’s experience during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Last year, South Africa were docked three points after fielding ineligible midfielder Teboho Mokoena, despite no protest being lodged by opponents Lesotho within the prescribed period.

“On the other side, there is also a rule that when [a team] selects a player with two yellow cards, [the opponents] have to complain directly after the game; [within] 24 hours you have to send a complaint to Fifa,” Broos said.

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has named the final team to face Panama in two international friendly matches later this month. Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium and DHL Cape Town Stadium will host the two matches against the Central American country.#BafanaPride @SABC_Sport pic.twitter.com/twuPFvtoda

— Bafana Bafana (@BafanaBafana) March 19, 2026