Bafana Bafana problems tackled
As much as Stuart Baxter is an astute tactician, his team selection leaves a lot to be desired.
Today we discuss Bafana Bafana's shambolic display against Ivory Coast. Listen to the podcast and read more in the blog below.
Bafana Bafana made a losing start in Egypt after suffering a 1-0 defeat to Ivory Coast in their Africa Cup of Nations opener.
Do you remember what I said about Stuart Baxter being a misfit for the national team?
His true colors started to manifest themselves when he left Thapelo Morena out of the 23-man squad and favoured fullbacks who aren't as attack-minded as he is.
In yesterday's game, the current PSL 'Midfielder of the Season' who captained Mamelodi Sundowns to the league title, Hlompho Kekana, remained an unused substitute as the coach preferred Dean Furman and Kamohelo Mokotjo.
Orlando Pirates dribbling wizard Thembinkosi Lorch, who won the 'Player of the Season' award had to watch from the bench.
As much as I understand how Baxter wanted to play, it's safe to say his style is not suited to South African football, as the players that fit his profile are not the best we have got in the country.
Can you tell me why Lebo Mothiba played ahead of Sibusiso Vilakazi? We all know that Villa is way better than Lebo, but the coach gave the latter the nod because he prefers tall strikers.
He should have at least exercised a bit of tactical flexibility by ringing some changes in the second half, but he didn't.
Read: Sky, Darren, and Eggs Benedict bet a bucket of chicken on their AFCON winners