DR ‹ › In sharp contrast to the criticism voiced by Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos over the organization, logistics, and atmosphere of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, South Africa's Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture has publicly praised the tournament and its Moroccan hosts. In a letter shared Tuesday on X, South African Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie extended his «warmest congratulations» to the Kingdom of Morocco for the «truly exceptional manner» in which it is delivering the 35th edition of the continental tournament. The message describes AFCON as being staged at a «genuinely world-class standard», commending the quality of the organization, the professionalism of tournament structures, and the overall atmosphere across the host cities. These elements, the letter notes, have «set a new benchmark for the continent and showcased Africa at its very best». McKenzie also highlighted the high standard of facilities provided to participating teams, praising hotel arrangements for their comfort, security, and suitability for elite-level preparation. Unlike Broos, he further lauded transport logistics, citing modern, well-equipped team buses and the efficiency of movement between training sites, stadiums, and accommodation, factors he said reflected meticulous planning and significant investment in infrastructure. These remarks stand in stark contrast to repeated public complaints from Hugo Broos. The Belgian coach first lamented what he described as a lack of «AFCON vibe», arguing that the atmosphere fell short of previous editions held in Ivory Coast and Gabon. More recently, he criticized logistical arrangements following South Africa's move from Marrakech to Rabat, citing long travel times to training sessions in Salé that, according to him, disrupted the team's preparation. Broos also questioned the decision to have both South Africa and Cameroon train at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, which serves as the Moroccan national team's base camp. For the record, South Africa exited the tournament after losing to Cameroon in the knockout stage. Cameroon is now set to face Morocco in the quarterfinals on Friday in Rabat.
