Bafana Bafana - start of a winning streak?

| Siyabonga Kalipa
Elvis Gallant at the Bafana Bafana game against Nigeria in Cape Town on Wednesday night. Photo by Siyabonga Kalipa.

On Wednesday, Bafana Bafana’s new intake of youngsters played their second game, this time against African champions Nigeria at Cape Town stadium, leaving over 30,000 supporters with huge smiles. The game ended in a goalless draw, but with Bafana on second spot with six points in Group A of the African Nations Cup Qualifiers.

The new Bafana coach, Shakes Mashaba, came under criticism for his squad selection of young players. But he has not lost a game in his third stint as the national coach.

After their first game, against Sudan and away from home, the team returned 3-0 winners. Bafana Bafana supporters who were at the Nigeria game spoke positively about the coach and his young squad.

Ricardo Samuels from Lansdowne said, “The boys played very well. They kept it tight at the back. I think we should have scored a goal, but I’m happy with the draw. I’m very happy with our new coach by sticking to his guns and bringing in young players to the national team; as you saw in the game, they have clicked quicker.”


Ron da Costa Silva at the Bafana Bafana game against Nigeria. Photo by Siyabonga Kalipa.

Ron da Costa Silva from Durbanville said, “The game was very nice to watch. The boys played very well. I expected more from Nigeria but they could do nothing to our boys. As for our coach, he looks like he is going to go forward with the team they were very impressive.”

Elvis Gallant of Kraaifontein said, “The ref nearly spoiled a beautiful game with his bad decisions but it was a good game. I’m happy with the draw because it means we are second in our group. People must stop complaining about the coach. He is perfect for the job because he is thinking ahead by bringing in the youngsters who are the future.”

Brenda Mullins, also from Durbanville, said, “It was nice to go out and see Bafana Bafana in Cape Town. The boys showed tonight that Nigeria is not so strong. The coach is good for the players. He will do a great job. All he needs is for his players to show loyalty and commitment to the team.


Brenda Mullins at the Bafana Bafana game against Nigeria. Photo by Siyabonga Kalipa.

TOPICS:  Sport

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