Sport, Arts and Culture Minister, Zizi Kodwa, has wished Bafana Bafana well as the national team left for Côte d’Ivoire where they will participate in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.
“I have no doubt that you will make us proud in the tournament and raise the South African flag high. You carry the hopes and aspirations of the nation. I look forward to seeing you in Côte d’Ivoire ahead of your first game against Mali,” said the Minister in a social media post on X.
The Minister’s comments come as the national football side departed from Johannesburg to Abidjan on Thursday and will make their residence in CAN Village in Korhogo - their home from Friday.
His comments also follow on the back of Bafana Bafana’s training match against Lesotho which was held behind closed doors at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville, on Wednesday in Tshwane.
Bafana Bafana played to a goalless draw against Lesotho ahead of the continental tournament which will run from 13 January to 11 February 2024.
In a statement on Wednesday, Bafana Bafana coach, Hugo Broos shared his thoughts on the injury concerns that have affected his team ahead of the tournament to be held in the west African country.
Captain and goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams is currently being managed by the medical team due to a knee niggle, midfielder Themba Zwane took a knock on the knee a few days ago while Mothobi Mvala had a groin injury.
“Mvala is still part of this team for now. I will not rule him out or think further until I have the full medical details from the team doctor. He is still a part of the AFCON-bound team. Mvala is the type of player that gives everything, both during a match and in practice,” Broos said in a statement issued by the South African Football Association (SAFA).
The players were not part of the South African senior men’s team that faced Lesotho. -SAnews.gov.za
