Kaizer Chiefs midfielder, Reneilwe Letsholonyane, has explained the myriad of emotions players taking part in the 2014 World Cup will likely be going through in Brazil.
'Yeye' was a part of the Bafana Bafana squad which took part in the 2010 tournament in Mzansi, and is well aware of the massive pressures everyone involved is facing.
He was in the starting line-up as the national team drew 1-1 with Mexico back then on 11 June 2010. The tidalwave of emotion that accompanied that match is certainly something hard to forget for both players and fans alike.
The 32-year-old, speaking to the club's official website, explained how players would be feeling ahead of the opening match between hosts, Brazil, and Group A opponents, Croatia.
He said, “I think it is a nervous time for the players. Players are looking forward to play in the biggest stage in their soccer career. Expectations are high for the host nation and more so that Brazil are one of the top ranking teams in the world, and soccer is like a culture to them. The players must be going through emotions now that it is less than 24 hours to go to the start.”
'Yeye' added who he favoured to win the competition, “I am going with Spain and Argentina but obviously no one can afford to rule out Brazil. Belgium are the dark horses and are likely to be the surprise package this time. They are looking good. Belgians are not only playing for big teams in Europe but they are mostly doing well. It is a tough call to make, soccer is full of surprises."