Bafana's fate is still in their own hands. Defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi said the team must focus completely on beating Zimbabwe to advance in the Africa Cup of Nations. Their hopes took a hit with a one-nil loss to Egypt in a match featuring controversial VAR decisions, but a victory in their final Group B game will secure a knockout spot. Mbokazi stated the locker room talk is about fighting for that win, drawing confidence from their strong second-half performance against the group leaders.
He emphasized the squad's need for togetherness under coach Hugo Broos now more than ever. Regarding the denied penalty call against Egypt, Mbokazi acknowledged the team felt hard done by but said they cannot dwell on it, as the referee's decision stands. The defender also reflected on the experience of marking high-profile opponents like Mohamed Salah, stating he will use those lessons against future elite players. The simple equation remains: win and progress, or face elimination alongside Zimbabwe.
He emphasized the squad's need for togetherness under coach Hugo Broos now more than ever. Regarding the denied penalty call against Egypt, Mbokazi acknowledged the team felt hard done by but said they cannot dwell on it, as the referee's decision stands. The defender also reflected on the experience of marking high-profile opponents like Mohamed Salah, stating he will use those lessons against future elite players. The simple equation remains: win and progress, or face elimination alongside Zimbabwe.
