BAFANA Bafana’s backline in a friendly match against Madagascar at Absa Stadium on Sunday will be manned by one of the most experienced defenders, Lucas Radebe.
Radebe confirmed on Thursday that he will be arriving in South Africa on Saturday morning and caretaker coach Jomo Sono was quick to add that he will definitely use him.
”I spoke to him yesterday (Wednesday) and he told me that he played in the second half (at the weekend) and he did not feel any pain. I am going to use him on Sunday because I need to look at him.
”I am now happy with my defence.
”It’s not that the players who are here are not good, but I was a bit worried about the stage. But if the experienced guys crack, then we’ll be back to younger players,” said Sono.
Radebe last played for Bafana Bafana in a World Cup qualifier against Burkina Faso in January last year and after that he struggled with injuries at club level and had two knee operations.
He was stripped of the captaincy at Leeds United and Bafana Bafana.
One of the players to have worn the armband since Radebe was axed is goalkeeper Andre Arendse, who is confident that Bafana Bafana would show an improved performance against the Islanders.
”Look, we’ve turned the corner already and from here on our results can only get better and this is just a perfect opportunity for us to re-boost the confidence of the public in SA sport in general.
”With all due respect to Madagascar, we are coming up against low opposition and if we get the support which Durban normally gives us, I think we can get at least three to four goals.”
The league winning keeper admitted that the World Cup excitement was lacking from the public.
”South African fans have been spoiled by past successes and they always want positive results. I think the fact that we have been there before and that we did not do well is contributing.
”But they need to understand that with the nation behind us, half the battle is won.”
Arendse said though every player is focusing on getting into the final team, he does not doubt his
chances.
”I’ve always said that I have a lot to offer the national team and I have had a wonderful season which I can only cap with playing in the World Cup.
”All the defenders that I have played with at both club and international level are disciplined and they listen to my instructions and as a goalkeeper when your defence complements you, then there is nothing to worry about,” said Arendse.
Arendse said anything if they get anything more qualification for the second round in the World Cup it will be a bonus.
Arriving on Thursday was Holland-based goalkeeper Hans Vonk. – Sapa