Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-02-04 09:40:33
South African coach Hugo Bruce spoke to the media following his team’s victory in the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations, where they secured a spot in the semi-finals for the first time since 2000. Bruce stated that they will approach the upcoming semi-final match against Nigeria with a different strategy compared to their previous game against Cape Verde.
South Africa’s victory over Cape Verde came after a grueling 120 minutes of play that ended in a goalless draw, leading to a penalty shootout. Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams emerged as the hero by making four crucial saves, ultimately helping Bafana Bafana secure the win with a 5-3 victory on penalties.
Looking ahead to the semi-final match against Nigeria, Bruce acknowledged the quality of the Nigerian team, singling out player Ademola Lookman as a notable threat. He emphasized the need for the team to remain focused and well-prepared for the upcoming game.
Bruce attributed their victory over Cape Verde to the hard work and dedication of the players, particularly highlighting Williams’ exceptional performance during the penalty shootout. He acknowledged the pressure and skepticism surrounding the team’s ability to advance to the semi-finals but expressed pride in what the players had achieved.
Despite facing doubts and criticism, Bruce underscored the team’s unwavering belief in themselves and their ability to succeed. He emphasized that reaching the semi-finals was a significant accomplishment for South African football and expressed optimism about their prospects in the upcoming match against Nigeria.
In conclusion, Hugo Bruce’s comments shed light on South Africa’s hard-fought victory in the quarter-finals and their determination to approach the semi-final match against Nigeria with a strategic mindset. He praised the resilience and dedication of the players while emphasizing the significance of their achievement in reaching the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations.
