In this week’s SportPesa Clubhouse column ambassador, Doctor Khumalo spoke about the current U20 FIFA World Cup that is taking place in Poland.
Thabo Senong and his charges have been heavily tested so far in the tournament after suffering a 5-2 defeat in the opening match against Argentina and then failing again against South Korea in a 1-0 loss. This has left Amajita rock bottom in Group F.
However, Khumalo has given credit to the young men for their displays.
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“Our National U20 team played their first game of the 2019 FIFA U20 World Cup against Argentina this past weekend. Yes, we lost 5-2, but that’s really not a true reflection of the game. In fact, the score line is really flattering for Argentina and we were really unfortunate. When the VAR (Video Assistant Referee) was introduced, we thought it was going to solve our problems and do wonders, but it hasn’t been kind to us. Without the VAR, the game could have easily turned out differently as both the penalty and a red card would most probably not have been given.
“That said, I must give credit to the boys because they were really unbelievable in the first half. Immediately after conceding, the boys regrouped and proved their worth. For players their age, I was amazed by how they fought back and gave their more fancied and experienced opponents a run for their money. I must give credit to coach Thabo Senong and his technical team and the South African Football Association for a great job. Our teams have not been participating in these games for a long time, but the progress we’ve made in the last two-three years has been unbelievable. All our teams have been actively involved in FIFA games and that’s a great thing for the country’s football.”
The Kaizer Chiefs legend went on to send his well wishes to Banyana Banyana as they prepare to face Spain in their first match of the Women’s FIFA World Cup next week Sunday.
To read Doctor’s previous column click here
To read what ‘16v’ had to say, check out this week’s SportPesa Clubhouse column in Soccer Laduma, issue 1125.
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