Igesund proud of Bafana Bafana players

28 Jan 2013 10:17:00 AM

Gordon Igesund could only praise South Africa's players following their dramatic draw against Morocco and believes his side could go all the way to the final

Gordon Igesund spoke of his pride in his players following South Africa's 2-2 draw against Morocco, which ensured the home side qualify for the quarter-final stages of the Africa Cup of Nations as winners of Group A.

Bafana Bafana had to come from behind on two occasions in order to stave off defeat and possible elimination from the tournament. Superb strikes from May Mahlangu and Siyabonga Sangweni confirmed that the hosts would make it to the next round of the Afcon for the first time since 2004.

Igesund celebrated with his players at the final whistle and told reporters after the game, " "We feel very, very proud to have achieved our first objective. I must thank the players and the fans. The next 20 hours we're just going to relax. We can now look forward to our next game."

Despite his side securing a famous draw, Igesund had to concede that the team needed to work on their defensive errors which almost led to their elimination, but believes that Bafana Bafana is now close to securing a berth in the final.

"Morocco were a very tough team. I do not want to point out mistakes, but we conceded two goals we should not have done. There are now two games to the final and I believe in my players."

Moroccan coach Rachid Taoussi was left dismayed by his side's elimination and is looking forward to Morocco's World Cup qualification fixtures.

"I am very disappointed with the result, but we fought with dignity and honour. I am satisfied. We did not lose a game and the tournament was a positive one for me.

"This Cup of Nations was a step forward and we will now prepare for the 2014 World Cup qualifiers. Our main objective is the 2015 Cup of Nations, which Morocco host."

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