"The Czech Republic is about physicality, and they don't like to play football or combination play", Broos said after the match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. "They play very direct, and they have the right players for that style, all of them tall. That created a lot of difficulties for us with aerial balls".

The Belgian coach suggested this was a tactical choice by their opponent, but also asserted that South Africa played more attractively. "If you love football, you would prefer our style of play over the Czech Republic's today", he added.

Coach Hugo Broos gives instructions during South Africa's 1-1 draw with the Czech Republic in the second match of Group A at World Cup 2026 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia, USA on 18/6. Photo: Reuters

Coach Hugo Broos gives instructions during South Africa's 1-1 draw with the Czech Republic in the second match of Group A at World Cup 2026 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia, USA on 18/6. Photo: Reuters

Beyond criticizing their opponent's playstyle, Broos also expressed dissatisfaction with the pitch conditions at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. "This is not a proper football pitch", the 74-year-old coach complained, comparing it to Azteca Stadium in Mexico. "The stadium is beautiful, very modern, but only the grass serves football. I prefer open stadiums because you can feel the atmosphere".

Conversely, Czech Republic coach Miroslav Koubek declined to engage in a heated debate regarding his opponent's remarks. "That's his opinion. He has the right to think that way, and I have a different view", he stated concisely.

On the field yesterday, the Czech Republic took the lead in just the 6th minute through Michal Sadilek. However, they squandered numerous opportunities, including chances missed by Patrik Schick and Vladimir Darida. In the 81st minute, Pavel Sulc committed a handball inside the penalty area, allowing Teboho Mokoena to convert the penalty kick and secure a 1-1 draw for South Africa.

The draw leaves the group stage wide open. Both the Czech Republic and South Africa have one point each, trailing Korea and Mexico (3 points), and still have a chance to compete for a spot in the knockout rounds.

Broos was satisfied with South Africa's response and performance after their opening 0-2 loss to Mexico. "We played good football, proactive and offensive, creating chances, but we lacked a bit of luck", he said. "It's a shame we made one mistake, but I am still very proud".

In the final group A matches on 24/6, South Africa will face Korea, while the Czech Republic will play Mexico.

Broos is one of the most accomplished coaches in Belgian football, having been voted Belgium's best coach four times: two times with Club Brugge (1992, 1996), one time with Anderlecht (2004), and one time with Genk (2007).

During his tenure in Belgium, he led Club Brugge to two national championships and three National Cups, brought Anderlecht back to the Champions League, and won the Belgian national championship in the 2003-2004 season. From 2008, he began coaching abroad, managing Panserraikos, Trabzonspor, Zulte Waregem, and Al Jazira Club.

Broos's most significant achievement at the national team level came with Cameroon, winning the Africa Cup of Nations in 2017. Arriving in South Africa in 2021, the Belgian coach helped the team secure a bronze medal at the Africa Cup of Nations 2023 and qualify for the World Cup 2026.

Broos is known as a pragmatic coach in European football. He prioritizes building a disciplined defensive system, emphasizing team spirit and quick transitions. While not famous for complex tactical ideas, the Belgian strategist has achieved success numerous times through his ability to organize teams, manage personnel, and optimize available resources.

Hong Duy (according to ESPN, Sky Sports)