Bafana Bafana defender, Thabo Nthethe, told the Siya crew that they’re looking forward to the CHAN 2014 tournament which is set to go underway in Cape Town this weekend.
Bafana Bafana will open their game against Mozambique at Cape Town Stadium at 18:00 in what the Bloemfontein Celtic skipper calls a tough game for the home-side. Nthethe says he believes CHAN is the right stage for the team as they would like take their careers to the next level and compete in the continent.
“We are taking this tournament seriously despite the fact that it’s not in the FIFA calendar or played by local players. We cannot underestimate any opposition, we must respect Mozambique and they came here to compete and play well for their respective countries, so it won’t be easy in that sense. As much as we want to win and do well in the tournament, it’s not going to be easy for us especially as the host nation. However, we’ll give our best.
“It’s going to be tough you know, Mali, Nigeria and Mozambique all came here to do well. I foresee a tough group to be honest. Everyone knows Nigeria, these are the African champions although they will be using their local players, but they can play good football. As far as my observation is concerned, guys like Mpontshane, Mbatha and the others are happy for their call-ups, they show that they’re willing to play for the team,” added Nthethe.
'Mr. Cool', as the player is affectionately known in football circles, has urged Bafana supporters to come in numbers to rally behind the team.
To read more about what the Bafana player said, get your latest copy of Soccer Laduma, (Issue No: 853) and read the Revolving Column.
