Former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper Brian Baloyi has cautioned national team coach Hugo Broos over his recent criticism of supporters and former players, saying the Belgian mentor must remember that the team belongs to South Africans and not to any individual.
Baloyi’s remarks come after Broos launched a strongly-worded defence of his leadership ahead of Bafana Bafana’s crucial FIFA World Cup clash against Czechia, insisting that he would continue doing things “his way” despite growing criticism.
The veteran coach had come under pressure following South Africa’s disappointing 2-0 defeat to Mexico in their opening Group A match, where many supporters and former footballers questioned his defensive team selection and tactical approach.
Responding to the criticism, Broos dismissed many of his detractors.
“And I never listen to the trash on social media. I never listen to people who think they are sometimes important and have to criticise the team,” Broos said ahead of the Czechia encounter.
“When I see what they did before, I think it’s better that they shut up.”
The Belgian also made it clear that criticism would not influence his decisions.
“You know I’ve coached for 40 years, and I know there’s a side of this job where you are criticised. For the moment, I’m criticised, but people must know, and for those who don’t know it, I will still do it my way.”
Speaking to Africa Daily during Honour’s FIFA World Cup watch experience for the Bafana Bafana-Czechia clash, Baloyi expressed concern over Broos’ public response.
“I think my only concern is really emotional intelligence with our coach,” Baloyi said.
“The things that he says to the public, forgetting that this is not your team. This is not SAFA’s team. This is South Africans’ team.”
Baloyi said supporters have every right to express both praise and criticism when it comes to the national team.
“South Africans will voice their opinions when they’re happy. They’ll voice their opinions when they’re not happy.”
“Your duty as a coach and the players is not to answer back. Focus on your football, focus on what you do.”
The former Kaizer Chiefs, Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana goalkeeper described football as a game built on differing opinions and said criticism should not be viewed as hostility.
“Football is a game of opinions. We’re not going to agree. It’s not always going to be nice.”
“But what you should know is South Africans love you. We support you.”
“We support you because you are South Africans and we love you. We love the team, we love you as players.”
Baloyi urged Broos and the players to block out outside noise and focus on performances on the field.
“Cut the chatting back and just focus on the fight and your duties at hand.”
“I think once they stop focusing on outside influences and what happens outside the field and focus on what’s most important on the field, they can do much better than they are right now.”
Despite his criticism of Broos’ remarks, Baloyi insisted he remains firmly behind the national team and believes the squad has shown enough quality in recent years to justify continued support.
“We know, we believe in you,” he said.
“The only reason is because of the performances that you’ve shown, from finishing third at the Africa Cup of Nations. We know what this team is capable of.”
Baloyi’s comments came as fans gathered to watch Bafana Bafana’s second Group A match against Czechia at an exclusive FIFA World Cup watch experience hosted by Honour, the tournament’s official watch sponsor.
The event blended football, technology and entertainment, with several former Bafana Bafana stars in attendance as supporters followed the action from the United States.
South Africa went on to secure a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Czechia, keeping alive hopes of reaching the FIFA World Cup knockout stages for the first time in the country’s history.
Now preparing for a decisive final group match against South Korea, Bafana Bafana will be hoping the focus remains on the football as they attempt to make history on the world stage.