JOHANNESBURG – Bafana Bafana coach Stuart Baxter has hinted that he might ring some changes to the team that takes the field on Tuesday in a critical FIFA World Cup match against Cape Verde at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban (starting 7pm).
Speaking to journalists on Sunday, the Bafana Bafana mentor said there was a possibility of any of the departments facing possible changes.
South Africa lost 2-1 to Cape Verde on Friday to put a spanner in the works on chances to qualify for Russia 2018. But a goalless draw between Burkina Faso and Senegal in Ouagadougou the following day threw Group D wide open again.
Baxter said because Tuesday’s game was massive and playing at home, he would definitely look at playing a more offensive side knowing Cape Verde would be buoyed by their win on Friday.
“It is definitely going to be an open game considering Cape Verde would be more confident and we would go for it. Cape Verde would be feeling confident, hopeful and I foresee a very competitive game,” he said adding Thulani Serero would be available for selection after missing Friday’s encounter with a slight knock.
Baxter said it was imperative for Bafana Bafana to quickly respond to Friday’s setback but refused to say how many points a team that will win the Group is likely to have.
“I am one person who doesn’t want to take things for granted because, in such instances, anything is possible. We need to adjust quickly and respond to Friday’s setback,” he said.
Under such circumstances, the players know what is expected of them; not disappoint the nation. He said being professionals they are, all players knew their responsibilities.
“The good thing is that Burkina Faso and Senegal drew which means we are all even again and the race is on.”
The Bafana Bafana coach said Friday’s result was disappointing but it was not necessary to dwell on the past and negatives.
“We played well in the opening 20 minutes and I honestly think we conceded two goals which were avoidable.
"The two goals were poor decisions from our players and even when we were a man down (after defender Eric Mathoho was sent off) we created better chances but all in all we never got going on the day.”