I always knew his quality – Hugo Broos on Sipho Mbule

By Mazola Molefe
16th November 2025

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has once again praised Sipho Mbule’s remarkable resurgence in the national team setup, calling the midfielder’s latest outing further proof of his quality.

The Orlando Pirates star walked away with the Man of the Match award after South Africa’s 3-1 victory over Zambia in Saturday’s international friendly at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha.

Asked about Mbule’s performance, Broos said he never doubted what the 27-year-old could offer when at his best.

The Belgian-born mentor even goes as far as suggesting Mbule is the ideal replacement for Themba Zwane, the talisman who remains a big doubt for the AFCON.

"We have found our player who can replace Themba, but if anything happens to Mbule, then we have a problem again.

"I hope that Themba can still play a few matches for Sundowns and become stronger. The goal is to go with both Themba and Sipho to the World Cup," explained Broos.

READ: Zambia admit Bafana too much to handle in Gqeberha

With the AFCON just a month away, Broos admits he’s got more tough decisions to make before announcing his traveling squad.

"I'm already thinking about the date I have to announce the 23 players, because it will certainly not be easy, especially in a few specific positions.

"Today I gave a chance to a few players who didn't play a lot in the past, and to see how they are reacting and adapting to the team tactics is great to see. I'm certainly satisfied," said the chuffed Belgian.