SEDIBENG.- Former Bafana Bafana midfielder, Augustine Makalakalane, has warned the national team to expect a tough match when they play Kenya in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Bafana Bafana will face Kenya in the first leg of their back-to-back qualifier at the Orlando Amstel Arena in Soweto tomorrow, with kick-off scheduled for 18:00.

Following the home fixture, Bafana Bafana will travel to Kenya on November 17 for the second leg.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster Sport, Makalakalane said despite any challenges Kenya may be facing off the field, the fixture will not be an easy outing. He pointed out that Kenya is coached by former Bafana Bafana striker Benni McCarthy, describing him as one of the best coaches who possesses extensive knowledge of South African football from his playing days across all national teams.

Makalakalane also said that McCarthy’s coaching profile is bolstered by his playing career at the highest level in Europe and a short stint with Manchester United as a striker coach.

Makalakalane warned that it would be suicidal for Bafana Bafana to let Kenya’s off-field problems lure them into a false sense of security or the belief that the match will be a walk in the park.

“Knowing Benni, this is one game that he is going to show his credentials as a coach. It is not going to be an easy game for Bafana Bafana. Bafana Bafana had to dig deep to beat Kenya, especially when they travel to Kenya for the second round of the qualifiers.”

Additionally, Makalakalane believes that local players Relebohile Mofokeng and Tshepang Moremi will be key performers for Bafana Bafana in tomorrow’s encounter.

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