Johannesburg – Bafana Bafana coach Gordon Igesund says he is pleased with South Africa's 3-1 victory over Malawi in a friendly international at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.
Two first half goals from Lehlohonolo Majoro and Siphiwe Tshabalala, and a second half penalty by May Mahlangu handed Igesund his third victory from six games in charge of the national outfit.
“Obviously I'm very pleased that we won the game, it's always important to win for the fans,” Igesund said after the game.
“I got a lot out of today's game. I was able to give May Mahlangu a run, I was able to see (Sifiso) Myeni, I was able to see (Thabo) Matlaba.
“We have accomplished what we wanted to achieve today. Well done to the boys, but I must also say well done to Malawi.”
Igesund added, despite the victory, the team blew hot and cold, allowing their opponents to reduce the deficit in the 48th minute, when Siyabonga Sangweni was adjudged to have brought down Robert Ng'ambi inside the penalty area, despite claims that the Malawian took a dive.
“In the first half, for periods we played really good football. We scored two goals and then we took our foot off the pedal,” he said.
“There was a period in the second half where we lost our shape completely.
“We had to make the changes and I think we took control of the game again after that.”
With less than a month before the Africa Cup of Nations kicks-off in Johannesburg, Igesund said he was excited to gather the final squad ahead of final preparations for the continental showpiece.
“It was a tough game but I'm quite happy with where we are right now,” Igesund explained.
“They (Malawi) played hard, they made it very difficult for us and they had some good touches and moments in the game.
“We are looking forward now to just getting to January 2nd so that we can start working with the team as a unit.” – Sapa