Thembi Kgatlana, a prominent player for Banyana Banyana, has expressed her dissatisfaction with the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) following their recent 1-0 loss at the MKO Abiola National Stadium.
Despite the defeat, South Africa’s national team, the Super Falcons, are determined to qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and will be looking to turn the tables in the upcoming return leg at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria.
Kgatlana specifically criticized the NFF for their failure to properly prepare the playing surface at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium. According to her, the uneven grass hindered their ability to keep the ball on the ground during the first leg.
She voiced her concerns to SABC News, stating that the team’s style of play relies heavily on ball movement, which was compromised by the unfavorable pitch conditions.
In contrast, Kgatlana believes that playing on a better surface at home will give South Africa an advantage in the return leg.
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She emphasized that the pitch at Loftus Versfeld will be more conducive to their style of play, allowing them to exploit their strengths and potentially level the playing field against the Nigerian team.
Kgatlana also highlighted the contrasting playing styles of the two teams, with South Africa focusing on ball possession and Nigeria favoring a more direct, running-based approach.
Despite acknowledging that Nigeria’s tactics worked in their favor during the first leg, Kgatlana remains optimistic about South Africa’s chances in the upcoming match.
She believes that with improved facilities and a more favorable pitch, her team will be able to showcase their skills and secure a positive result.
The determination to avoid conceding an early goal at home is evident, as it would significantly increase South Africa’s chances of progressing in the Olympic qualification process.
