Kekana tips confident Bafana to deliver in Morocco

FORMER Bafana Bafana midfielder Hlompho Kekana has backed the self-assured new generation of South African players to deliver a strong showing at this year’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), set to be hosted in Morocco.

- OBAKENG MELETSE

Bafana have been on a steady upward trajectory in recent years, and after reaching a major milestone by qualifying for next year’s Fifa World Cup — to be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada — they have defied the steep odds that once stood before them.

With that achievement secured, the AFCON represents another vital step in their progress and a chance to build momentum ahead of the global stage.

South Africa finished third in the previous edition of the tournament and has since displayed a level of consistency in both squad selection and performances that has reestablished them as one of the top footballing nations on the continent.

It is this consistency that has impressed Kekana, who was part of the Bafana side that made it to the quarterfinals of the 2019 AFCON before losing 2-1 to Nigeria, who went on to finish third in that tournament.

“The preparation towards the competition was key,’ Kekana reflected on their 2019 campaign.