Five things we’ve learnt about Bafana

New-look team’s chances of improving are high

The first test for Stuart Baxter as Bafana Bafana coach is over.

After their 2-0 victory over Nigeria in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier last Saturday, and the 2-1 defeat to Zambia in an international friendly on Tuesday, we look at five things we’ve learnt.

● Baxter has backing of the players

In training there were happy faces as players did their best to impress him. In the dressing room, thanks to Safa’s updates on various social media platforms, players were singing and Baxter joined in.

● Competition in central midfield tight

Dean Furman, Bongani Zungu, Tiyani Mabunda and Andile Jali did well for the

team. Hlompho Kekana and Kamohelo Mokotjo, who pulled out with injuries, are also part of Baxter’s plans.

● Percy Tau can be a good impact player

When he came on as a substitute against Nigeria, Tau caused problems with his runs. His goal put Bafana in a comfortable position and Baxter will be looking at Tau to make a difference going forward.

● Ronwen Williams did not justify his selection

The SuperSport goalkeeper struggles with pressure of playing for Bafana. After coming on as a substitute on Tuesday, he made an error. His howlers against Mozambique last year and in Bafana’s 5-0 defeat to Brazil in 2014 are well known.

● CAF club competitions benefiting Bafana

With clubs doing well on the continent, the chances of Bafana improving are high and it’s starting to show.