Senong pleased with preparations
Thabo Senong’s national Under-20 team were held to a 1-1 draw by Mali on Sunday at Peter Mokaba Stadium, in their last international friendly before they go to Zambia for the Caf Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations.
Kaizer Chiefs reserve team striker Itumeleng Shopane (right) opened the scoring for the home side after coming on for Liam Jordan in the second half, but his 74th-minute strike was cancelled out by Boubacar Traore a minute later.
However, Senong was pleased with the team’s performance on the day and says playing Mali was a good test and has helped them to be ready for their first match of the competition.
“We are very happy with the way the players responded and are confident we will be ready for our first match of the Under-20 Afcon next Monday,” the coach said.
After spending the last couple of days in Polokwane, the team travelled back to Johannesburg yesterday for the last phase of the preparations for the continental showpiece.
With six days to go to the start of the tournament, Senong has emphasised the need to get his players to start taking their chances in front of goal.
“We obviously still have some work to do, we need to find a strategy to convert the many chances we create,” added Senong.
Amajita have been drawn alongside Senegal, Sudan and Cameroon in Group B. The South African national Under-20 side will open their campaign against Cameroon on February 27, followed by a clash with Senegal on March 2 – both games will be played at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.
Amajita will then lock horns with Sudan in their last group match at the National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka on March 5.
Goalkeepers: Sanele Tshabalala, Mondli Mpoto, Khulekani Kubheka. Defenders: Notha Ngcobo, Tercious Malepe, Aghmat Ceres, Siyabonga Ngezana, Katlego Mohamme, Sandile Mthethwa, Thendo Mukumela. Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Sipho Mbule, Wiseman Meyiwa, Phakamani Mahlambi, Sibongakonke Mbatha, Kobamelo Kodisang, Grant Margeman. Strikers: Itumeleng Shopane, Khanyisa Mayo, Liam Jordan, Luther Singh