Since the announcement of changes to the biennial tournament, the governing body has been putting out fires, repeatedly trying to reassure stakeholders and clarify what the new era will look like for the tournament. Recently, rumours emerged again that the next edition could be postponed, owing to the unpreparedness of the host countries.
Although the continental competition took place last year in August, the matter of unpaid bonuses only resurfaced five days ago when Neo Maema revealed they are yet to receive a penny. According to the players' association's top official, they have escalated the matter to the South African Football Association with a view of resolving it once and for all.
The Super Eagles showed their class with a near-perfect display against the East African nation on Tuesday night in the final pool outing to make three wins in a row. However, it was not a good outing for Paul Put's men, who were eliminated without tasting a win. They lost two games and drew once from the three fixtures.
Looking for a third straight victory in Morocco, the Super Eagles will face the East Africans, who are yet to win a game. Nigeria, who have already qualified for the knockout stage, have been impressive so far with victories against Tanzania and Tunisia. On the other hand, the Uganda Cranes are looking for their first win after an opening loss to Tunisia, which was followed by a 1-1 draw against Taifa Stars of Tanzania.
Inspired by their 26-year-old star, the Carthage Eagles managed a convincing victory over the Uganda Cranes as their AFCON campaign started as they wished. The East Africans struck late in the second half to deny the North Africans a clean sheet. The 2004 AFCON champions now top their group ahead of Nigeria, who also won their opening game.
The experienced goalkeeper has joined a growing list of players from Masandawana who have found homes at the lower league club. His place in the squad that will head to the AFCON finals is now doubtful, given that he is also injured.
Molefi Ntseki's men were fortunate to get a point in their third game in the pool as they struggled to deal with the now-eliminated West African nation.
GOAL's Thabang Kgeledi runs the rule over South Africa's African Nations Championship squad full of free agents needing to play their way back into the PSL.