CAN 2025: The South African Minister Reframes His Coach and Apologizes to Morocco

The statement was made upon the delegation’s arrival at Johannesburg International Airport. Gayton McKenzie wanted to set the record straight following the controversial remarks of Hugo Broos, who had deplored a lack of atmosphere during the competition.

"The behavior of the coach is unacceptable and provocative. You cannot come and insult the inhabitants of a host country," the minister said firmly. He disputed his coach’s analysis, emphasizing his isolation: "He always stayed in the hotels, how can he judge the atmosphere of the AFCON? We saw it in the streets of Morocco, it was exceptional."

"The best edition in history"

Beyond the internal reframing, Gayton McKenzie lavished praise on the Moroccan organization. "Morocco has offered the best edition in the history of the AFCON: exceptional organization, world-class stadiums," he affirmed, adding that the country has proven that Africa can compete with the greatest nations.

The minister backed up his words by posting an official letter addressed to his Moroccan counterpart, Mohamed Saad Berrada, on his X account. He reiterated his gratitude and apologized to the Moroccan people for the coach’s inappropriate comments.

To recall, Hugo Broos had stated that he did not feel the same fervor ("vibe") as in Côte d’Ivoire or Gabon, regretting the absence of supporters greeting the team’s bus. South Africa left the competition in the round of 16, beaten by Cameroon (1-2), Morocco’s future opponent.