South Africa coach Hugo Broos has attributed Bafana Bafana’s World Cup exit to the superior physical strength and speed of Canada following their narrow defeat in the round of 32.

The 74-year-old Belgian manager reflected on his side’s 1-0 loss to the co-hosts in Los Angeles on Sunday, admitting that Canada’s athletic qualities proved decisive in the knockout encounter.

Stephen Eustaquio’s dramatic stoppage-time winner ended South Africa’s historic World Cup campaign and sent Canada through to the last 16, while Bafana Bafana’s impressive run came to an end.

Speaking after the match, Broos said modern football demands more than technical ability, highlighting the physical gap between the two sides.

“I have said many times that modern football is more than just technique,” Broos said.

“There is power and speed, and we do not have it in our team yet. Canada had those qualities.”

Despite the disappointment of elimination, South Africa earned widespread praise during the tournament after reaching the knockout stages for the first time in their history.

Bafana Bafana recovered from an opening defeat to Mexico to secure progression from Group A, producing one of the tournament’s surprise stories before eventually falling to the North American hosts.

Broos, who had previously indicated that he could retire from coaching after the World Cup, also hinted that he may reconsider his future following the team’s encouraging performances.

The veteran tactician has overseen a remarkable transformation of the South African national team since taking charge, guiding them to continental success and now their best-ever World Cup performance.

While acknowledging the need for greater physicality in the squad, Broos praised his players for their commitment and fighting spirit throughout the tournament.

South Africa’s run to the knockout rounds has raised expectations for the future, with Broos suggesting that the experience gained on the world stage could help Bafana Bafana continue their development in the years ahead.