By Rédaction Africa Links 24 with sabcnews.com
Published on 2024-01-19 15:05:09
The South African men’s senior national football team had a disappointing start to the Africa Cup of Nations, losing their opening match to Mali 2-0. As a result, they are at the bottom of Group E going into their next match against Namibia. The team is now desperate for a positive result to enhance their chances of progressing to the next round of the tournament.
Midfielder Sphephelo Sithole, one of only three overseas-based players in the team, believes that a victory over neighbours Namibia will greatly improve their chances of reaching the round of 16. He emphasizes the importance of a win, stating that it would put them in a favorable position.
Teammate Teboho Mokoena shares this sentiment, noting that while it may not be a must-win situation, they must avoid defeat against Namibia to stay in the tournament. Both players acknowledge the difficulty of the first match, with Sithole highlighting the team’s struggle in the second half due to the opponent’s physicality. He also mentions the missed penalty in the first half as a crucial moment in the match.
The team is currently based in Korhogo in the northern part of the Ivory Coast, and both Sithole and Mokoena praise the organization and facilities for the tournament. They are now focused on the upcoming match against Namibia and are determined to make the most of this opportunity to redeem themselves.
Looking ahead, Bafana Bafana are aiming to progress to the round of 16, similar to their performance in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt. With the upcoming match against Namibia presenting a crucial opportunity, the team is eager to secure a positive result to boost their chances of advancing in the tournament.
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