‘They Asked for $5 Million’ - Bafana Coach Reveals Why South Africa Sidestepped Brazil and Argentina Friendlies

Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has disclosed that friendly matches against football powerhouses Brazil or Argentina were considered, but the South African Football Association (SAFA) would have faced a staggering bill of $5 million (nearly R100 million or Ksh646 million) to host the South American giants.

Ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup, there has been public sentiment that the national team should be testing itself against stronger opposition. Bafana Bafana is currently scheduled to play two friendlies against Panama. However, Broos explained that while top-tier opponents were an option, the associated costs were prohibitive for the association.

Despite this, the Belgian coach expressed his satisfaction with the secured fixtures, stating that Panama will provide a suitable challenge as his squad prepares for the global tournament set to kick off in June.

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"The best scenario would be to play against an Asian team, a Central American team, and a European team," Broos told the media in Pretoria on Monday.

"The CEO, Lydia, said Brazil wanted to play against us, and I said, 'Very good, why not?' They asked for $5 million (R83 million) to come. A few months ago, Argentina also wanted to play against us in Johannesburg for €5 million (R97 million or Ks748 million)."

"You understand? It's easy to say, 'Why not that?'" he continued. "Panama isn't coming for free either. You have to pay them as well. SAFA made a big effort to bring Panama, and now we will see if we can get an Asian or a European team for May."

Broos contrasted the financial realities in South Africa with those in Europe, where higher ticket prices can offset steep appearance fees.

"I know it's easier for European teams to bring opponents because the money is there, but we don't have that money," he explained. "Even if you play Argentina or Brazil at FNB Stadium with a full capacity crowd, you can't charge the necessary prices.”

“If Brazil came to Belgium, the cheapest ticket would be €40 (R800 or Ksh5,991). You can't ask for that in South Africa; nobody will pay R800 for a ticket. I am happy with Panama and hope we find another opponent for the end of May."

Bafana Bafana will continue their training camp in Pretoria before departing for Durban on Thursday for Friday's match at Moses Mabhida Stadium.