Midfielder Mokoena's rallying cry, with AFCON hopes on the line: Step up the defensive game
As Bafana Bafana gears up for a pivotal AFCON Round of 16 match against Cameroon, midfielder Teboho Mokoena emphasises the need for defensive improvements.
Bafana Bafana midfielder Teboho Mokoena will have to get the side ticking over in their upcoming round of 16 fixture on Sunday.
Image: Backpagepix
Midfielder Teboho Mokoena is throwing down the gauntlet, strongly urging Bafana Bafana to tighten up their defence and step up their game.
As Bafana Bafana prepare for a crucial AFCON Round of 16 showdown against Cameroon on Sunday, Mokoena has underscored the importance of bolstering their backline amidst heightened expectations.
The Mamelodi Sundowns star acknowledges the pressure mounting on the squad following a successful group stage, especially after South Africa bagged a bronze medal in the last edition of AFCON in the Ivory Coast.
“We are happy as a team to go to the next round, but I think the real tournament starts now, so we have to improve. We have conceded too many goals already, and we must improve that,” said Mokoena.
Reflecting on their performance against Zimbabwe, Mokoena said Bafana Bafana’s streaky 3-2 triumph over their regional rivals exposed the delicate balance between dominance and vulnerability.
“We got nervous when they scored their second goal, and we lost a bit of control in our game,” Mokoena admitted. The 26-year-old expressed the need for composure under pressure, emphasising that a more measured approach on the ball could lead to better performances as the tournament intensifies.
As echoes of hope and ambition resonate across Mzansi, Mokoena’s words reflect a team striving for stability amid chaos. Their defence has come under scrutiny, and Mokoena believes that addressing these weaknesses is vital to success against the formidable Cameroonian side.
“When we play too many long balls, that is not our game. We need to improve on that going forward into the knockout stages,” Mokoena added, highlighting the need for strategic adjustments.
With their match set to take place at the Al Medina Stadium in Rabat, Mokoena and his teammates are aware that the challenge against Cameroon will be a true test of their mettle.
As they prepare to step onto the pitch, the call for defensive resilience is clear. Bafana Bafana must fortify their strategy to advance in this prestigious tournament.