SPORT: Do or die battle for Bafana this weekend

Bafana desperately need to avoid defeat to qualify for AFCON.

March 20, 2019

Eliot Mahlase 2 minutes read

Sfiso Hlanti being challenged by a Libyan defender. Photo: SAFA

Bafana Bafana find themselves in another do or die clash in order to qualify for a major tournament.

Just under two years ago, Bafana lost a must-win encounter against Senegal at Peter Mokaba stadium in Polokwane, which ultimately saw them fail to qualify for the 2018 World Cup.

This Sunday, Bafana are away to Libya as they seek to qualify for 2019 African Cup of Nations (AFCON). The two teams are second and third in group E from five games.

Bafana are two points ahead of Libya so a draw would be enough to take them to Egypt (Afcon) later this year, however, a defeat will see Libya qualify.

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South Africa captain Thulani Hlatshwayo urged the nation to get behind the country on Sunday,

“We are fully aware of what this match means to the players, the entire travelling delegation, the Association, the fans and the whole country, and we believe we have what it takes to ensure that we get the needed result, however, we urge all South Africans to rally behind the team this weekend for this all-important game,” said Hlatshwayo on SAFA.net.

“We all know that Bafana Bafana is a team that can unite the nation and bring some positivity around the country – and that is why we need positive energies back home for us to do well against Libya.”

Hlatshwayo was confident the squad had the players to see them over the line and book their place in Egypt.

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“Everyone is highly motivated in the camp and we know that we have a good chance of winning this encounter. We have conceded only one goal in five matches and haven’t lost a game in the qualifiers – which is an indication that we are doing something right, we just need to finish off what we started,” added Hlatshwayo.

Fans on social media, however, have been very sceptical of Bafana’s chances.

“Bafana Bafana only needs a draw to qualify for the AFCON. Now, you know how they like to do the impossible. They’re going to lose to Libya,} said Klive Wissler

“Bafana Bafana need only 1 point to qualify for Afcon2019 but knowing them, I’m not so sure,” another tweet read.

Avoiding defeat will be on Bafana Bafana's agenda as they look to qualify for this year's #AFCON tournament. pic.twitter.com/WknlOckV4P

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) March 20, 2019

This will be the worst International Break in recent years if Bafana Bafana fail to qualify for the #AFCON2019 on Sunday

— Shazi (@NkosinathiShazi) March 20, 2019