Former Bafana Bafana goalkeeper John Tlale asserts that the national team must refine their ability to capitalise on their opportunities, if they aim to avoid disappointments in the upcoming matches.
On Saturday, Bafana, under the guidance of coach Hugo Broos, secured all three points in their opening FIFA World Cup qualifier against Benin with a 2-1 win at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
READ | Broos: The most important thing was the victory
"Yes, they started very well, and they've got three points while other countries in the group drew their matches," Tlale told KickOff.
"I was impressed with the first half, but in the second half, they disappointed me."
"I didn't like the fact that they relaxed after scoring the second goal. In the second half, they played as if they had already sealed the game, and this isn't favorable for our country.
"Opponents should feel like they are playing away. To secure our stream, we need to score more goals. While other countries may beat you 9-0 when they have you on the back foot, South Africa decided to ease off."
Tlale commended Khuliso Mudau, stating, "I was so impressed with Khuliso Mudau; the boy is performing exceptionally well." However, he expressed concern about Zakhele Lepasa's form, noting a decline since his time at SuperSport United.
"He is not the same player, and the goals are no longer there. But he is not a bad player; you can't become a bad player overnight."
Regarding Evidence Makgopa, Tlale emphasised the need for improvement and increased effort. "Makgopa needs to show more hunger to score goals. He needs to work harder."
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments.
Click HERE to register!