‘Salah Had No Chance’ - Bafana Coach on Why South African Defender Must Play in Europe

South Africa coach Hugo Broos has reiterated his desire to see one of his talented youngsters play in Europe in future.

Broos has been an advocate of defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi playing in Europe because of the immense talent he has although the defender is set to join MLS side Chicago Fire after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The 20-year-old has excelled so far at the centre of the Bafana Bafana defence once again during their 2-1 win against Angola and the 1-0 defeat to Egypt and Broos was left in awe at how he pocketed Mohamed Salah.

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“There were some angry people when I said a few weeks ago that it was not the best choice for him, you saw why [against Egypt], he was my Man of the Match, the way that guy played,” Broos said as per iDiski Times.

“One thing in my mind still from the second half there was a deep ball to Salah, and he went in for the duel, Salah had no chance, no chance and that shows the quality of Mbokazi.

“You now understand why I’d be very angry if he ruins his career. This is a guy who can have a very big career, a very big career.”

Broos has insisted Mbokazi made a wrong choice by signing for Chicago Fire in a deal worth $3 million from Orlando Pirates and should have waited for a club in Europe after AFCON 2025 and the 2026 World Cup.

“If Mboki can go to a bigger competition and that means a European competition. Let’s say France, Spain, not Real Madrid or Barcelona but a good Spanish team he becomes better and better,” added Broos.

“Because he is already on a very good level and it will just increase his qualities when he plays against better players.”

As the defender continues to put in great performances, even Chicago could find themselves struggling to keep hold of him.