Hugo Broos Explains Why Bafana Bafana Lost to Panama Despite Mbekezile Mbokazi’s Superb Goal
- Hugo Broos has shared his thoughts on Bafana Bafana's first home defeat under his management against Panama in Cape Town
- The two teams drew in their first encounter in Durban a few days ago, and couldn't be saved by Mbekezile Mbokazi's superb goal
- The Belgian tactician explained the reason behind Bafana Bafana's defeat and why he rotated the line-up in the second leg
Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has reacted to South Africa's 2-1 loss to Panama at the DHL Stadium, Cape Town, on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.
Source: Getty Images
The first leg between the two teams ended in a 1-1 draw, with Orlando Pirates star Oswin Appollis scoring Bafana Bafana's only goal at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Friday, March 27, 2026.
The defeat in the second leg marked Broos’ first home loss in five years in charge of Bafana Bafana, as South Africa were caught off guard by the CONCACAF side, who sit 20 places higher than Mzansi on the FIFA rankings.
Broos on Bafana Bafana's loss to Panama
Broos, in an interview after the match, admitted that the 2–1 defeat to Panama had highlighted aspects he had not previously identified in his Bafana Bafana squad.
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At a packed Cape Town Stadium, a spectacular goal from former Orlando Pirates defender Mbekezile Mbokazi proved insufficient. José Córdoba and Jiovany Ramos found the back of the net for Panama, with the American nation asserting clear dominance in physical contests in the second half.
The Belgian tactician noted that his side created three clear opportunities in a strong first-half showing but failed to convert them—something he described as decisive in a match of that nature.
He added that Panama’s superior strength and pace after the break disrupted South Africa’s rhythm, preventing them from executing their usual style.
Broos hails Panama, explains squad rotation
Broos confirmed further the reason behind the two fixtures against Panama and outlined the value of testing his team against different footballing styles from other regions ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
While acknowledging shortcomings in his team’s performance, the former Cameroon national team coach credited Panama for capitalising effectively on the weaknesses of his team.
Source: Getty Images
The coach rotated his lineup, handing starts to Mbokazi, Relebohile Mofokeng, Jayden Adams, and Bongokuhle Hlongwane in place of Khulumani Ndamane, Themba Zwane, Sphephelo Sithole, and Appollis, who were starters in the first leg in Durban.
He explained that squad rotation in the second friendly game was intentional, aimed at evaluating different players and experimenting with positional adjustments.
According to Broos, the match provided valuable insight, even if it complicates future selection decisions. He further stressed that observing players at the international level offers a clearer assessment than club performances alone, noting that the two fixtures have given him meaningful data to guide upcoming squad decisions.
Broos sends a message to Sundowns
Briefly News also reported that Broos sent a message to Mamelodi Sundowns ahead of their second fixture against Panama in Cape Town.
The Belgian mentor also shared his plans ahead of the game, as the team continue to prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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Source: Briefly News
