Bafana ‘can scale first hurdle’
SA can make Afcon KO rounds say ex-players
Former Bafana Bafana players Clinton Larsen and Patrick Mayo strongly believe Stuart Baxter’s squad can get past the group stages of the African Cup of Nations in Egypt.
Coach Baxter on Tuesday announced a provisional 28-man squad for a training camp in Johannesburg, ahead of Afcon.
Bafana have been drawn in group D against Ivory Coast, Morocco and Nambia.
The national soccer side play their first game against Ivory Coast on June 24.
“Firstly I think it’s a very competitive squad, also a nice blend between local and overseas based players,” said Larsen. “We are in a difficult group. So, as in most competitions, a good start is very important. That could be a big plus for them moving forward into the tournament.
“Hopefully, they can get that right. But I think the squad they have chosen is a strong one.
The Chippa United coach said Baxter included all the players that were in form in the previous Absa Premiership season.
“The guys who were nominated for the PSL awards are all there. I think when you look at the defenders you have Thulani Hlatshwayo, Sifiso Hlanti, Innocent Maela and Daniel Cardoso from Chiefs.
“Cardoso has been one of the better performing players at Chiefs.
“In midfield
They do rise to the occasion in certain games but knockout stage could be a bit tricky
the usual suspects are there, Hlompho Kekana, Dean Furman and Tiyani Mabunda is there.
“I think there is a nice balance as well in terms of the spread of players from different teams.”
Local soccer hero and former Kaizer Chiefs player, Mayo, believes Orlando Pirates’ Vincent Pule and Tebogo Langerman of Mamelodi Sundowns should have been included in the team.
“Langerman should be there for his experience. He has played in the Champions League final and has been a pillar at Sundowns.
“His excellent work at leftback helped Sundowns win the league,” said Mayo.
“I would not have preferred Hlanti to start ahead of Langerman. At the same time I would have left out Ben Motshwari.
“I would have also left out Furman but I guess because of his experience that’s the reason why he has made it into the team .
“Sometimes you have to respect the decision made by the coach.”
The former Bush Bucks and SuperSport United player gave a thumbs up when asked if it was possible for Bafana to pass through the group stages considering the countries they are up against.
“They do rise to the occasion in certain games but the knockout stage could be a bit tricky.
“If they win the first game the coach must continue playing the winning squad.
“In the knockout stages there is no need to rotate players. He must only make changes if there are some injured players.”