By Angu Lesley Ngwa Akonwi
Football Writer,kick442.com-Cameroon
South Africa head coach Hugo Broos has been reported to the country’s Human Rights Commission following allegations that he made “racially-coded” and “derogatory” remarks in response to defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s recent move to Major League Soccer (MLS).
The Belgian coach criticised both the player and his agent after Mbokazi completed his transfer abroad and subsequently arrived late to Bafana Bafana camp ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations.
Broos, speaking during a media briefing earlier this week, questioned the decision behind the move and suggested the player had prioritised personal interests over national duty. His comments quickly sparked backlash on social media and within sections of South Africa’s football community, with critics accusing the coach of crossing a line in the way he framed his remarks.
On Friday, a formal complaint was lodged with the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), alleging that Broos’ comments went beyond professional criticism and veered into language perceived as demeaning and discriminatory.
The complaint argues that while coaches are entitled to question player commitment and professionalism, the tone and framing used by Broos reinforced harmful stereotypes and unfairly targeted Mbokazi because of his background and career choices.
Neither the SAHRC nor the South African Football Association (SAFA) has issued an official ruling at this stage, but sources have confirmed that the matter is under preliminary review.
Broos, who led South Africa to qualification for AFCON and has been credited with rebuilding the national team around younger players, has not publicly responded to the complaint. SAFA officials have so far sought to downplay the issue, describing it as an internal matter that will be addressed through the appropriate channels.
Mbokazi’s move to the MLS was announced earlier this month and was seen by many as a strategic step in his development, offering regular playing time and exposure in a growing league. His late arrival to camp, however, became a focal point of Broos’ criticism as South Africa continue preparations for the tournament.
The episode has reignited debate in South African football about player migration, respect between coaches and players, and the boundaries of public criticism in a diverse sporting landscape.
As the AFCON approaches, attention will now turn to whether the controversy distracts from Bafana Bafana’s preparations — and how the authorities choose to handle a case that touches on both football discipline and broader social sensitivities.
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