Exclusive: David Kannemeyer Urges Bafana to Block Out World Cup Talk and Focus on AFCON

Former Bafana Bafana defender David Kannemeyer believes Bafana’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) success hinges on focusing on themselves, starting the tournament well and avoiding the temptation to look ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

South Africa once again embark on a quest to replicate the class of 1996 and become only the second Bafana side to lift the AFCON trophy. Several previous attempts have fallen short, including the last edition, which ended with a third-place finish.

Past experience could prove vital

Nearly half of the current squad return to the tournament after being part of the bronze medal-winning campaign, and head coach Hugo Broos appears to have struck a perfect balance between youth and experience as he also targets a second AFCON title in his coaching career.

Bafana will open their Group B campaign against southern African neighbours Angola at the Stade de Marrakech on Monday evening (19:00 SA time). Seven-time champions Egypt, and Zimbabwe complete the group.

South Africa wrapped up their preparations with a hard-fought 1–0 win over a second-string Ghana side at Dobsonville Stadium on Tuesday. With focus now turning to the tournament itself, Kannemeyer told SportsBoom.co.za that the real challenge starts now.

“It will be a totally different story. The match against Ghana was just a friendly, and now the real business begins. Hopefully they can carry over the positive results they have achieved recently." 

“The focus must be on the future—winning the first game and taking a strong step forward in the tournament.”

A strong start is crucial

Alongside Egypt, South Africa are widely tipped to progress to what would be their fourth appearance in the round of 16 in their last five attempts. However, Kannemeyer cautioned against complacency, insisting that the group may prove more demanding than it appears on paper.

He also stressed that while Bafana will back themselves against Angola, the emphasis must remain on internal performance rather than the opposition.

“It is tournament football and anything is possible, so you cannot disrespect any country at AFCON. There is a reason why they are there, and Bafana must go out and do what they need to do to get the result."

“Every country wants to get over the first hurdle by winning the opening match, but without any disrespect to Angola, I do not think Bafana should focus too much on them. They need to focus on themselves and how they are going to overcome that hurdle."

“It will be a tough group. There are no easy teams at AFCON—every side has qualified on merit. No matter which group you are in, it will be difficult to progress."

“That is why it is important for them to focus on themselves, identify where they need to strengthen, and remain positive in order to get the desired results.”

AFCON must remain the priority

With Bafana’s confidence on the rise and the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, Kannemeyer stressed taking things one step at a time, saying the team must focus on performing at AFCON before turning their attention to the global stage.

The 48-year-old also voiced his full support for the Belgian coach, who has built a deep squad with a strong mix of experienced players and youngsters competing for places. Kannemeyer believes Broos has handled numerous situations well and praised his leadership throughout his tenure.

“You can call the AFCON tournament preparation for the World Cup, but they are totally different competitions.”Kannemeyer continued to tell SportsBoom.co.za. 

“We need to take it one step at a time, focus on what we need to do at AFCON, and only after that can we start looking towards the World Cup.”

“The coach has done a brilliant job. No one believed in him when he first took over the job.”

“There have been many questions about him, but I think he has handled things in the right way—blending players, giving opportunities, and selecting those who are in form. It makes sense.”

“He has been doing well, and he has my full backing because he is doing the right things for the country and the players.”