South Africa’s Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, has sharply criticized Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos over remarks he made about the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, describing the comments as disrespectful to a host country that has, he said, delivered an exceptional tournament.
Speaking to Newzroom Afrika, McKenzie said Broos’ comments about the “absence of an AFCON vibe” in Morocco were unacceptable and personally upsetting. He argued that the Belgian coach’s perception was skewed by his limited exposure, noting that coaches often remain in hotels and therefore miss the vibrant atmosphere felt by fans in the streets.
McKenzie made the remarks following South Africa’s 2–0 defeat to Cameroon in the Round of 16, stressing that it was inappropriate for Broos to “insult” a country that is hosting his team. He offered a contrasting assessment of the tournament, praising what he described as outstanding organization, particularly in terms of infrastructure, including stadiums and hotel facilities.
The South African minister went on to commend Morocco for what he called “exceptional work,” saying the country had demonstrated to the world Africa’s ability to host major international sporting events. He described the current edition of AFCON as “the best I have seen in my life.”
In a related move, McKenzie sent an official message to Moroccan Minister Mohamed Saad Berrada, congratulating Morocco on what he termed the exemplary organization of the tournament. The gesture was seen as an attempt by South African authorities to distance themselves from the controversial statements made by the national team’s coach.
The debate comes amid widespread praise for AFCON 2025 in Morocco, a tournament that many observers say has defied long-standing stereotypes about African competitions being poorly organized or played in deteriorating facilities—narratives often reinforced for years by sections of Western media.
Several international sports reports have noted that AFCON 2025 matches are being held in conditions comparable to major European tournaments, citing high-quality pitches, efficient logistics, and disciplined crowds inside and outside stadiums. This assessment has bolstered McKenzie’s public defense of the Moroccan-hosted competition.
Praise has not been limited to the media. The head coach of Zambia’s national team said during a press conference that AFCON 2025 “looks as if it is being staged in Europe,” pointing to the standard of organization and infrastructure. He added that the commendation extends beyond stadiums to training facilities, hotel accommodations, and overall tournament management, urging other African countries to take Morocco as a model for hosting major continental events.
Some analysts believe that the high level of organization has not been universally welcomed, suggesting that certain voices were expecting a more chaotic tournament reminiscent of past editions—scenes that previously provided fodder for ridicule in parts of the Western press.
