Hugo Broos defends Orlando Pirates fan favourite
Hugo Broos defends Orlando Pirates fan favourite, as Themba Zwane’s replacement. Broos, head coach of Bafana Bafana, has urged critics to show more patience before evaluating his potential in the national team.
Bafana fans have had mixed reactions to Patrick Maswanganyi’s brief cameo in the 2025 AFCON qualifier against Congo-Brazzaville, especially after he replaced Themba Zwane, who suffered a long-term achilles injury.
Maswanganyi, 26, entered the game in a difficult situation, with Bafana already under pressure, which made it tough for him to make an impact. Critics pointed to his lack of confidence and influence, questioning whether he could replace Zwane in the national squad.
However, Broos has defended the attacking midfielder, insisting that Maswanganyi hasn’t had enough opportunity to prove himself. “I don’t think Patrick did have already a good opportunity, he was always coming in the game,” Broos stated. The coach acknowledged the difficult circumstances of the Congo match, adding, “And it was not so easy to come in the game in Congo, because we suffered in that game. And then it’s not easy for a team, for a player who plays his first minutes with the Bafana Bafana immediately to have an important role.”
Broos believes Maswanganyi Can fill Zwane’s shoes
Broos remains confident that Maswanganyi possesses the potential to succeed in the national team, but emphasised that the player needs time to adapt to Bafana Bafana’s tactical system. “So for him, it’s also a little bit to adapt on our way of playing, on what I’m asking from him, on that position,” said Broos. The coach stressed that more time is needed for both the player and the team to find the right rhythm.
Broos reassured fans that Maswanganyi’s progress will continue to be monitored in future matches: “So okay, we will see in the next games, and we will evaluate. But I’m still believing that he has the potential to replace Themba. He didn’t show it for the moment in Bafana Bafana, but okay, we will see.”
The Bafana Bafana coach called for patience, stating that it might take a few months to fully assess whether Maswanganyi can step into the pivotal role vacated by Zwane. “Have a little bit patience, and maybe in a few months we have to say no or maybe yes, we will see,” Broos concluded.
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