Johannesburg – A goal each by man-of-the-match Thabo Matlaba and striker Bernard Parker on either side of the half saw South Africa go top of Group A after a thrilling World Cup Qualifier played at the Cape Town Stadium on Saturday.
It was a vintage Bafana show and with a bit of clinical finishing, the scoreline could have easily doubled as the Central African Republic were put to the sword by coach Gordon Igesund's marauding charges.
With Botswana and Ethiopia playing on Sunday (24 March) in Addis Ababa in the other Group A encounter, South Africa temporarily assumed top spot with 5 points, one ahead of Ethiopia.
A magnificent strike by Matlaba gave Bafana the lead in the 33rd minute, while Parker wrapped up the victory 20 minutes from time with another superb strike.
Bafana's victory was somewhat marred by a seemingly horrific injury to midfield workhorse Dean Furman in the 43rd minute following an aerial challenge in the box. He was heavily cut above the eye and on the nose and was replaced by Kagisho Dikgacoi.
“I was very pleased with the performance of the team. We kept a clean sheet and we did what was expected of us. Three points were crucial to keep alive our chances of going to Brazil. There is still a lot of work to be done because we are not a finished product as yet,” said Igesund.
“I am also excited that every day we are growing as a team and there is a lot of camaraderie in the squad. The result has given us huge confidence and a good platform.
“After tonight's match, I am confident that we can go there and get a result. Even though it's not going to be easy, we are capable of doing well in their backyard, as long as we continue to create chances and convert them. It's unfortunate we took wrong decisions in some instances tonight, but it's something we can work on.”
His words were echoed by captain Itumeleng Khune, who also had a splendid game in goals and was a close contender for the man-of-the-match award.
“We did well as a team; the boys came to the party. We really wanted this win and we are aware how much it means to the country. We scored two wonderful goals to ensure we get three points and that's what matters. We have to continue working hard and we will be well-rewarded I believe,” said Khune. – Sapa