Bongani Zungu: Ex Sundowns Star Reacts to Broos' Bafana Bafana Snub Since 2021
- AmaZulu midfielder Bongani Zungu breaks silence on his absence from the Bafana Bafana squad since 2021
- The former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder has been left out by head coach Hugo Broos, who took charge after Molefi Ntseki’s departure
- Broos' decision to prioritise younger players has kept senior players, including Zungu, out of the squad since his arrival
Former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Bongani Zungu has commented on his absence from the Bafana Bafana squad since 2021, after being left out by head coach Hugo Broos.
Broos, who took over the South African men's national team following Molefi Ntseki’s departure in 2021, made a bold decision to focus on younger players, leaving out senior players like Zungu, Thulani Serero, Kermit Erasmus, Sifiso Hlanti, Andile Jali, Siyanda Xulu, and Dean Furman.
Source: Getty Images
Zungu reacts to Bafana snub under Hugo Broos
Reflecting on the situation, Zungu shared his thoughts with FARPost about being excluded from the national team setup under Broos, explaining that he didn’t take the decision personally.
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“It wasn’t hard to accept,” Zungu said. “He’s the coach, and he made a call based on what he felt was best.”
“When I first joined the national team, there were already established players in the squad, but a new coach came in and chose me. That’s how football works.”
The AmaZulu FC star clarified that he harboured no ill feelings toward Broos for his omission, showing respect for the coach's decision.
“Whatever he’s said in the media doesn’t bother me — he never said it to me directly, and we’ve never even met,” Zungu added.
“I have friends in the national team, and I’ve never held any bitterness. I’m South African, and I support South Africa, always.”
While Zungu respects Broos’ decision, he did express his hope to return to the national team.
“Things are going well, and it’s great to see the team performing,” he said. “Of course, it would be nice to return someday. Hopefully, it happens, but if not, I’ll just keep working.”
Zungu’s comments show his maturity and support for the team, despite missing out on a place in Bafana Bafana under Broos' new era.
There is still chance for him to make the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations squad if he remain consistent for Usuthu especially at the start of the 2025-26 season.
Source: Getty Images
Broos has claimed he's left his options open which gives players like Zungu the chance to fight for a place in his team with their performance at their respective clubs.
In recent Bafana Bafana squad list, the Belgian coach decided not to invite the likes of Percy Tau, Elias Mokwana and other top players. He also explained the reason behind his decision to leave out Kaizer Chiefs players.
Broos hits back at critics over Kaizer Chiefs' snub
Briefly News also reported that Broos has clapped back at Kaizer Chiefs fans who criticised him for overlooking their club players in his recent Bafana Bafana squad.
South Africa recently played an international friendly against Tanzania and Mozambique with no player for Kaizer Chiefs being represented.
The Belgian tactician name three Amakhosi stars in his preliminary squad but snubbed the trio in the final list.
Source: Briefly News
