Knowledge is key for Bafana

Man to watch. . . Abdoulaye Sissoko, left, shows why he's the man to mark when Mali meet South Africa today.

Sidibe, Traore, Sissoko, Diarra, Coulibaly. . . these are the names any Mali football team is likely to have. Mali players are characteristically lanky and muscular. They play in a semi-professional league which is largely based in the capital Bamako, with very little organised football in far-flung regions of the massive country. Given this usual background about Mali football, what's there to fear for South Africa ahead of their Chan 2014 fixture this evening?

Well, Mali beat Nigeria 2-1 in their opening match, and their tactical aptitude and aggressive approach were a delight to watch in that match. Does this now mean restless time for Bafana Bafana? It should not be. Mali is not Bafana's problem, self-doubt is what limits the host team.

Fair enough, it was Mali which kicked South Africa out of the Afcon 2013, at the quarterfinals. Ironically, SA is he host again and today it needs victory over Mali to advance to the quarterfinals of Chan early. Bafana are under pressure to do well, not only because they are host but also that this tournament is played by home-based players. This means SA must defend the reputation which came from the self-promotion by its league, the PSL, as the best league on the continent.

Gordon Igesund and his team are therefore facing additional challenge over a frivolous matter. Just because we are rich does not mean we are the best. And if I am wrong about this, well, Chan is here. Let's take the damn thing and then gloat about being the best league in Africa, if that is such an important thing.
Mali looked good against Nigeria but today is a new ball game - 11 against 11 from the first whistle.

Bafana must use their strengths to the best of their ability, these being speed and darting moves to ward off the physical advantage of the Malians. I don't see why Bafana must feel the pressure; their mission for a positive result is achievable if they focus on the job at hand and forget silly antics.

Above all, knowledge is power. Bafana must have learnt everything there is to know about their opponent: watch Abdoulaye Sissoko upfront and find way past Ousmane Keita and Mahamadou Traore in defence. If panic sets in during the match it will be of their (Bafana) own doing, not because of any outside force.

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