Bafana Bafana‘s CHAN coach Molefi Ntseki says the fact that he took mostly unattached players to the tournament co-hosted by Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya did not have an effect on how his players performed.
Bafana drew 3-3 with the Cranes in a dramatic Group C decider that saw Uganda awarded two penalties late in the game. The result meant that the Cranes progressed to the knockout phase of the competition having finished first in the group with seven points while Bafana were eliminated after fishing third with six points, equal number of points with second-placed Algeria who advanced with a better goal difference.
The tournament playing outside FIFA windows meant that Ntseki’s side was dominated by players who are currently free agents, and he believes they were the best representatives for the country as they showed commitment.
“I think we brought professionals, and they showed how professional they are,” said Ntseki.
“They showed their commitment, understanding that they are playing for their country and in a game of football like I said there are three results.
“Unfortunately, today we got the result that we did not want. We wanted a win, and things did not happen for us.
“As for the future, I think the country is very proud of their performances and we brought the best players that played very well in this tournament.
“I can’t fault any of them in terms of performance and commitment. And as a coach and as a staff of the team that came to represent South Africa here, we are very proud of them.”
The coach was also asked if his charges could have managed the game better seeing that they led 3-1 until the 86th minute and this is how the former Kaizer Chiefs mentor responded.
“Tactically I think we did what we needed to do,” added Ntseki.
“I think the display in the first and second half, the types of goals we scored was basically in relation to how we analysed and how we planned for this game.
“Yes, we scored three goals and then for whatever reason that I don’t want to get involved with, they managed to get the two penalties.”
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