Johannesburg – Bafana defender Thabo Nthete says he cannot wait for the much-anticipated clash against five-time world champions Brazil next month.
“It is every player's dream to play against the best, and I guess I am no different. I have not played against Brazil and given a chance on the day I will certainly do my best,” Nthete said in a statement on Tuesday.
“I watched them against Bafana Bafana in the 2009 Fifa Confederations Cup and in Sao Paolo two years ago and it has been my wish to play against them.
“If I am selected, it will be like a dream come true, more so coming at the back of having faced World and European champions Spain.”
The former Bloemfontein Celtic captain who recently made a move to Mamelodi Sundowns said he was expecting a “blockbuster” of match, similar to Bafana Bafana's 1-0 victory against Spain in November last year.
“It is going to be a tough day but that is what every player savours – playing against the best in the business,” he said.
“They are an all-round team, very strong in defence and a sleek strike-force, so it calls for us to work as a team and be at our best.”
Nthethe, who has been capped 19 times for Bafana, said the match would be the sternest test for most of the players.
“I don’t think we will disappoint our legion of fans on the night as I believe coach Igesund has selected a very competitive squad that can hold it’s own against many teams,” he said.
Kick-off for the friendly is 7pm at the FNB Stadium on March 5. – Sapa