Bafana went on to score two beautiful goals: one from defender Siyabonga Sangweni and striker Lehlohonolo Majoro.
Having said that, the team is perched top of the log after the stubborn and sensational Cape Verde pulled a resounding performance (one all draw) against nemesis Morocco at the same venue last night.
Furman, who truly resembled and ignited the ‘class of ‘96’ in the form of Eric Tinkler made all the dirty work which our national team has been lacking in the central role: ball winner, finish and klaar!
Tireless, winning balls and multiplied by winning tackles when necessary, Furman was marvel to watch. And he did that with aplomb! Welcome dude…
His deadly combination with May Mahlangu outfoxed the Angolan spirited midfielders which was their launching attack system.
Yes, we won convincingly but will head coach Gordon Igesund tamper with the winning team? After-all, why fix what is not broken?
My take, is he should use the same formation for our last group stage match against Morocco to stamp our authority as we progress to the elimination stages.
Thuso Phala is slowly gaining confidence which has made international teams rushing for his signature- which we wait with bated breath for- but his finishing touches should be polished.
In a nutshell, the whole starting 11 put in a magnificent job.
Ahead of the match, Sports Minister Fikile Mbalula called on Bafana Bafana to make the nation proud.
“Do what you are supposed to do to the best of your abilities, and what will define the end result of your fight is the score,” he said.
“You came here to defend the interest of the country. Be ready to fight and defend your nation until the end.”
Mbalula visited Bafana at their hotel in Durban ahead of their second match, after Bafana were held to a goal-less draw by Cape Verde in the tournament opener in Johannesburg on Saturday.
The Sports Minister told the players: “Do not surrender, because some people perform much better under pressure and they end up doing miracles”.
“Take your chances; squander them if possible, but at the end of the day you will leave the field knowing that you tried.
“You are being challenged, and I think you have to take the bull by its horns.
“There is no retreat, you guys have the guts and your God-given talent, do your best and enjoy the game.”
Oh, no partying as yet boys ‘cos the incensed Morocco are next on Sunday.
Furman, we shall need that performance once again…
