Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has applauded the team’s efforts after qualifying for the round of 16 at the African Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.
This despite the team playing to a goalless draw with Tunisia in the final match of Group E at Korhogo.
The team will now face the top ranked team in the continent and FIFA World Cup semi-finalist Morocco, next week Tuesday.
“I don’t have to tell you that there’s a very happy coach sitting behind this microphone.
I am not only happy because we’ve qualified for the next round, but I am also happy about the performance.
The coach will always be satisfied when he sees his boys working and fighting on the pitch, doing what he’d asked,” said an elated Broos.
Broos also commended what he described as a ‘family’ spirit by both sections of the team, those who were on the field and the ones on the bench.
“I’m very happy to see a bunch of guys on the bench who are doing as big as big efforts as those on the field to support their teammates.
And I saw all this today I saw a family, a team, who’s just a unity,” said Broos.
The coach said the team did a good analyse of Tunisia, were resolute in their game plan, and were cautious in their attack.
He also lamented that the team didn’t get enough rest after their last game against Namibia on Sunday, unlike their opponents who played on Saturday and were a bit well-rested.
Meanwhile, man of the match Themba Zwane, said the team was warry of Tunisia’s physicality and confident that the experience playing in the CAF Champions League will come in handy.
“We knew as a team that it was going to be difficult and physical, because we watched our game.
“At the same time, we wanted to avoid unnecessary yellow cards and try to be calm but give the fight.
We have shown the quality, we play Champions League, we know the level is high here, and we can compete and go forward,” said Zwane.
