South Africa head coach Hugo Broos has launched a scathing assessment of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, claiming the tournament lacks the energy, fan engagement and atmosphere that define AFCON.
Speaking candidly, the Belgian tactician admitted he has struggled to feel the familiar buzz that usually surrounds Africa’s flagship competition, despite this being his third appearance at the finals.
“I don’t feel the same vibe compared to what I felt in Gabon or Ivory Coast,” Broos said.
“I don’t know how to explain it, but in Ivory Coast and Gabon you really felt you were in a tournament. When we went to training with the bus, people were waving and showing flags. Here, there is nothing. There is no typical AFCON vibe.”
Broos also raised concerns about poor attendance at matches, particularly during South Africa’s group-stage games, suggesting ticketing policies may be keeping fans away from the stadiums.
“I am not feeling it here. We play the game and get everything we want, but if they don’t let people in for free, nobody is coming to watch the games,” he said.
“Nobody came to watch South Africa against Zimbabwe, nobody came to watch our game against Angola.
“In Ivory Coast, even games like Tunisia versus Namibia had full stands. Local people were involved in the tournament, and I don’t feel that here.”
The Bafana Bafana boss went further, criticising stadium organisation after describing a troubling experience involving his own family during South Africa’s match against Egypt.
“My family was at the game and it was chaos before kick-off,” Broos revealed.
“The police didn’t allow some people into the stadium even though they had tickets. People without tickets were allowed in, while those with tickets were blocked. My wife said she was afraid. The organisation on that one is not good.”
Despite his strong criticism, Broos was quick to acknowledge areas where the tournament has delivered, praising the quality of accommodation and training facilities provided to teams.
“We cannot complain about what we have,” he added.
“The hotels are fantastic, both in Agadir and here in Marrakesh. The pitches are very good and from our side, in terms of facilities, everything is fine.”
While Morocco continues to impress with infrastructure, Broos’ comments highlight growing concerns that the soul of AFCON — the colour, noise and passion of the fans has yet to fully arrive at the 2025 tournament.
