Shakes does his homework

BAFANA READY FOR PALANCAS NEGRAS TEST

SHAKES Mashaba never really gets into tactics and video analysis, but the Bafana Bafana coach seems to have done his homework ahead of their crucial 2018 World Cup round two qualifier against Angola on Friday.

Mashaba had come under fire for not getting the necessary information on how and where Mauritania play, as Bafana lost 3-1 in an away 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in September.

However, going into the match against Angola this week, Bafana look set to walk onto the pitch a better prepared team. They leave for Luanda today and then they will take another flight to Benguela, where the World Cup qualifying clash is due to take place.

“We have been doing our homework. They [Angola] have brought in five or six foreign-based players. We also went back to the DVD of when we played them in Cape Town. I think that will make our preparations easier, but the both legs will be tough,” Mashaba said.

“They have quick, strong and skilful players in the middle of the park. We should not give them space or allow them to shoot. We need to defend smartly in front of our box. Everybody is looking forward to this game. Give us a good pitch and you will see us at our best.”

Injured goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune was replaced by his Kaizer Chiefs teammate Brilliant Khuzwayo, but he is unable to honour the call-up because of family commitments.

Mashaba said: “We need not panic when one player is not in. Khune came in and did well, but here’s a chance for the other goalkeepers to do well. ”

There are a few other injury concerns, but team doctor Thulani Ngwenya said the players should be ready to face Palancas Negras.

“Jackson Mabokgwane has a right knee injury he sustained training at Aces, but it’s not serious. Lehlohonolo Nonyane has a knee injury and a back strain. He is also fit to participate. Eric Mathoho sustained a right calf strain during the game against Pirates, but we are managing him. George Lebese had a left hamstring injury. He is undergoing training and he is fit to participate.”

Overseas-based players Thulani Serero, Dino Ndlovu, Kamohelo Mokotjo and Tokelo Rantie were due to arrive last night.

National under-17 coach Molefi Ntseki will travel with the team in place of assistant coach Owen da Gama, who is in camp with his under-23 side.