Shaky Mashaba in need of a win over Costa Rica

then, Bra Shakes guiding the South Africans to a 2-1 Nelson Mandela Challenge victory at Potchefstroom’s Olen Park in 2003.

A similar result tomorrow and some of the pressure that has been brought to bear on him following a pathetic start to the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers will be eased.

But, more importantly, getting the scalp of a team that reached the semi-final at last year’s World Cup in Brazil will be an immense confidence booster for Bafana.

Immediately after the friendlies with Costa Rica tomorrow and Honduras next week, Bafana will have a two-legged World Cup preliminary clash with Angola.

Such has been Bafana’s poor showing in the Afcon qualifiers – a draw with Gambia was followed by defeat to Mauritania – that there are already fears that they won’t get past the Palanca Negras on November 9 and 17.

Not even victory over Senegal has seemed to help, the view among Bafana fans being that the team always wins friendlies but fail where it matters most – in official matches.

Yet, beating a team that did so well at the previous World Cup should change that perception a bit, although the fact that the Central Americans are clearly also taking this friendly seriously, is sure to make things that much harder for Bafana.

“We are excited to be here and have heard that Costa Rica have named their most powerful squad. I am glad because my boys always relish playing against the world’s giants,” Mashaba is reported to have said during a press conference upon arrival in Costa Rica.

“I have brought a very exciting group of players who are eager to leave a lasting impression on this continent and (tomorrow morning), fans should be in for a real treat.”

Goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune supported the coach’s statement.

“Everyone is excited to be here and matches against countries like Costa Rica are what brings out the best in most professional players. I saw them play Brazil last month and the truth is they are a formidable side that will test our mental