Broos Anger Boils Over After Mbokazi Fails to Report to Camp
Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has criticised Orlando Pirates and rising defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi for what he labelled unprofessional conduct after the youngster failed to report to national team camp on time ahead of AFCON 2025.
Bafana players were due in camp on Monday, but the 19-year-old did not pitch as scheduled, with Pirates informing Broos that Mbokazi had missed his flight from Durban. The explanation — and a follow-up message from the club — left the national coach unimpressed.
Broos told the media he was frustrated by both the player’s excuse and the club’s attempt to shield him:
“Mbokazi missed his flight. Pirates explained it, but the reasons were nonsense. This is exactly the unprofessional attitude I’ve spoken about.”
With the defender set to join Chicago Fire after AFCON, Broos warned that early stardom may be getting to him. The coach stressed that a national team call-up demands discipline:
“When you’re 19 and selected for AFCON and World Cup qualifiers, you arrive on time — even early.”
Broos added that he will address the issue directly with Mbokazi, making it clear that no player, regardless of potential, is exempt from national team standards.
Mbokazi recently played 90 minutes in Pirates’ Carling Knockout Cup final win over Marumo Gallants, his last appearance before departing for MLS following the continental tournament.