Bafana Bafana stars Khuliso Mudau and Relebohile Mofokeng are prioritizing mental toughness and defensive discipline ahead of their physically demanding Afcon knockout clash against Cameroon.
South Africa’s Bafana Bafana are finalizing preparations for tonight’s high-stakes Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) last-16 encounter against Cameroon in Rabat.
Defensive mainstay Khuliso Mudau and rising star Relebohile Mofokeng acknowledged the challenge of facing the physically dominant Indomitable Lions.
Mudau emphasized the team’s readiness following detailed video analysis, stating: “We are aware of their physical game because of the analysis that we have done on them. They have stronger players but we have to put up a fight.”
The tactical focus for Bafana Bafana centers on mental resilience to counter Cameroon’s stature.
Mofokeng, who transitioned from a playmaker role at Orlando Pirates to an international impact player, believes psychological strength will be the deciding factor.
“Whether they are physically strong or not, a strong mentality is the one that is going to win us the game,” Mofokeng noted. He expressed readiness to contribute in any position to ensure South Africa progresses to the quarterfinals.
Reflecting on the group stages, Mudau highlighted the need for defensive discipline after the team conceded four goals in three matches.
He noted that the current tournament is more difficult than the previous edition because “a lot of people know about us now.”
Having had a full week to prepare since their final group game against Zimbabwe, the squad is focused on tightening the “back door” while capitalizing on offensive opportunities at the El Barid Stadium.