Bafana Bafana, led by Coach Hugo Broos, prepares for a crucial World Cup qualifier against Lesotho, emphasizing the need for humility and adherence to their game plan. Broos acknowledges Lesotho’s competitiveness and stresses that his players must respect every opponent to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 2002. The expected lineup features several key players, including captain Ronwen Williams and forward Percy Tau.
In anticipation of a challenging encounter, Bafana coach Hugo Broos emphasizes the importance of humility as his team prepares for a FIFA World Cup qualifier against Lesotho. This match, scheduled for Friday at 6 PM in Polokwane, is crucial for Bafana Bafana to secure their aspirations for World Cup qualification, a feat they have not achieved since 2002. Broos insists that the team must adhere to their game plan to capture all three points against their neighbors.
Broos reported that the players are fit and ready for the match. He highlighted the necessity of following their strategy, stressing, “It always become a habit here in Africa that you’re not assured of victory before the game.” He cited recent examples where teams underestimated their opponents, noting that Lesotho had previously performed well against stronger teams like Morocco.
Acknowledging Lesotho’s competitiveness, Broos pointed out that they have earned five points in their four qualifiers, trailing Bafana Bafana, Rwanda, and Benin, who lead Group C with seven points. He remarked, “We are facing an opponent who will fight for every meter and fight for every ball. They have a fantastic mentality, and we must match that mentality from the beginning of the game,” underlining the need for a steadfast mindset.
Broos noted the past tendency of Bafana Bafana to take lesser-ranked teams lightly but stated that the current squad’s desire to qualify for the World Cup requires respect for every opponent. He reflected on a previous lackluster performance against Lesotho, urging his players not to bring that mindset into the qualifiers. He emphasized the significantly different motivation and stakes involved this time.
In terms of team lineup, Broos is expected to maintain his usual starting XI, with captain Ronwen Williams in goal, Khuliso Mudau at right back, and Fawaaz Basadien at left back. The central defense will likely feature Grant Kekana and Siyabonga Ngezana. Central midfield roles will be filled by Teboho Mokoena partnered with either Bathusi Aubaas or Jayden Adams. Oswin Appollis and Elias Mokwana are anticipated to start on the wings, while Percy Tau is expected to lead the attack alongside either Iqraam Rayners or Lyle Foster.
In conclusion, Coach Hugo Broos emphasizes the importance of humility and adherence to strategy as Bafana Bafana approaches their critical World Cup qualifier against Lesotho. The match is pivotal for their aspirations to qualify for the tournament for the first time in over two decades. Broos recognizes Lesotho’s capabilities and the competitive spirit of his players, urging them to stay focused and motivated in pursuit of victory.
Original Source: www.timeslive.co.za
