In fact Bafana were given a free pass into Afcon 2013 because South Africa is the host, otherwise they undoubtedly would once again have failed to qualify.

Ranked 15th on the continent and 68th in the world, Bafana are a long way off the championship material that saw them win Afcon in 1996.

This background is being restated to highlight the enormity of the task that faces Gordon Igesund, following his appointment as national coach.

According to several reports, the performance criteria which he is required to meet include taking Bafana to the semifinals of Afcon 2013, and qualifying for the 2014 Fifa World Cup in Brazil.

Afcon 2013 kicks off on January 19, with the final being played on February  10.
Let’s be blunt. Igesund is being given six months to turn a squad of losers into genuine contenders for continental  honours.

Of course it is not impossible,  but even the most adoring fans must admit this is a tall order.
Bafana’s record in qualifying for World Cups is also not impressive.

 They wouldn’t have featured in 2010 if  South Africa were not the hosts. The road to Brazil 2014 looks perilous.  

Igesund is undoubtedly the right man for the job. He has guided four different sides to   Premier Soccer League titles, and he did very well to lift Swallows last year.

If anyone can turn around Bafana’s fortunes, it is Igesund. But his challenges are formidable.

He will need strong support from Safa and indeed from the nation.

Congratulations, and the best of luck.