Coach Hugo Broos Says South Africa Can Surprise at World Cup

CAPE TOWN - Coach Hugo Broos says South Africa can create surprises at this year's World Cup, entering the tournament as an unknown factor.

The team returns to the World Cup for the first time since hosting in 2010. Their first match is June 11 against co-hosts Mexico at Azteca Stadium. They are also in Group A with South Korea and the winner of a playoff between Czech Republic and Denmark.

"When we are at our best level, with the quality in this team, then we can make some surprises in the World Cup," Broos said. "We are also a team that not too many people know, so that could be good for us."

He stated ambitions go beyond just qualifying. "For me, it's not enough to be there, and I should be very, very disappointed if the performances are not what I think they can be," he said.

South Africa finished ahead of Nigeria to secure one of Africa's nine spots for the finals in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Broos believes participation in major tournaments is key to generating international interest for the players, most of whom are based locally.