Hugo Broos found himself navigating a turbulent sea of criticism while leading the Cameroon national team during the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations.
The experienced coach who now manages South Africa recently unveiled the hurdles he faced while steering the squad to victory, shedding light on the tumultuous journey that took him from skepticism to triumph.
Broos, who assumed the managerial reins in 2016 after departing Algerian side NA Hussein Dey, confronted an early storm of discontent over his team selection for the 2017 Afcon hosted in Gabon. As whispers of dissatisfaction flowed through football circles, Broos faced a skeptical audience that questioned the choices he made to assemble the squad.
Contrary to the naysayers, Broos, with a steely determination, led his charges to clinch the coveted trophy, defying the odds stacked against them.
"I came across to a similar situation with Cameroon national team, people were not happy at all with the squad I chose for Gabon AFCON 2017, but we won the Cup," he said.
"Suddenly they were the first to throw sweets at me after throwing stones.
"In Africa you are told what to do, in Europe you completely become a boss until you are sacked or resign,"