South Africa line up against the Eagles in an Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final on Saturday night, and much of the media build-up has focused on the physicality and experience of the west Africans.
When asked whether these areas concerned him, Igesund said: “They have their strengths, and we have ours. They are very good in possession and are physical, but we have speed and quick thinking and movement between our midfield and forwards. They will focus on what they need to do and we will use the style that suits us.”
The Bafana boss was asked whether there was anyone in particular his side feared from the opposition, and was quick to state: “We don’t fear anyone. That is the wrong word. Mali have a very good team, with some very good individual players, so we will respect them. We don’t fear them or any team in this tournament, but we respect them.”
Igesund also revealed Bafana will not be looking back at the 2002 showpiece in which Mali, as the hosts, knocked South Africa out at the quarter-final phase.
“That was a very long time ago, and we won’t be paying any attention to that. We will be focusing on Saturday’s game and we are well prepared for it.”