Hugo Broos approves move to Bloemfontein after 14 years

South Africa host Zimbabwe in a crucial FIFA World Cup qualifier at a venue they haven’t visited since beating France while staging the 2010 global showpiece.

Broos says he was informed there will be a capacity crowd.

"What I heard about Bloemfontein makes me happy. They tell me that tomorrow [Tuesday night] there will be many, many supporters in the stadium and maybe it will be the first that we play for so many supporters. So, that is an extra motivation," Broos said.

READ: Zimbabwe coach weighs in on unpredictable WC qualifiers

Bafana have struggled with crowds despite enjoying a decent run under the Belgian mentor, including winning bronze at the AFCON earlier this year.

The coach wants the 12th man effect.

"People told me in the past days that tomorrow [Tuesday night] when I come in the stadium that I will see that they were right because we will need them. It will not be an easy game, I don't think that and when it's tough but you have those guys in the stands behind you, you can always do something more,” the coach added.

“So, let's hope that with the results we have that from that side, the side of supporters the answer is there. We are here, we support you and not with 1000 or 1500 supporters ,no, with more."

On facing The Warriors tonight, Broos, who’s first official match as head coach was against Zimbabwe in 2021, says the opponents will not be a walk in the park.

"A game against Zimbabwe is always difficult. We played two years ago I think, it was my first game as the coach of South Africa in Zimbabwe and it was not easy and we returned here two months later, we won 1-0, but it was not easy either. You know they are neighbours and a game between neighbours is never, ever easy."