As Bafana Bafana prepare for the Fifa World Cup next month, supporters will be hoping that Themba Zwane duly remembers the adage ‘to whom much is given, much is expected’, as he looks to lead from the front at the global showpiece.
Bafana played out a frustrating goalless draw against minnows Nicaragua in their final friendly match on home soil, held at a chilly Orlando Stadium on Friday night. The result may have slightly dampened the spirits of the players, who had only recently been named in the final tournament-bound squad.
Why Zwane’s Humility Was a Costly Mistake
Hugo Broos’s team will now look to conclude their preparations with a victory against Jamaica in Pachuca. The Mexican city will serve as their base camp ahead of their highly anticipated opening game of the global showpiece against the hosts, Mexico, on June 11.
While this World Cup will be a first for all the players in the Bafana ranks, their established talismans — including Zwane — are expected to anchor the side. Zwane commands immense respect both on and off the pitch. He certainly commanded that respect in Orlando, but his characteristic humility inadvertently undermined his potential impact on the night.
The 36-year-old was one of only a handful of regulars in a Bafana line-up that was largely makeshift. He nonetheless proved exactly why he remains the smoothest player in domestic football, weaving past his markers with trademark ease. According to the Fifa website, Zwane’s experience will be crucial in the upcoming tournament.
Zwane’s Decision to Let Foster Take the Penalty
Zwane’s exquisite control brought a vital sense of calm to his younger teammates. However, Bafana’s freedom going forward was heavily limited as Nicaragua maintained a disciplined low block, constantly looking to exploit any counter-attack opportunity. Kamogelo Sebelebele, playing on his familiar home turf, complemented Zwane well with his trickery, with his positive movements eventually winning Bafana a penalty on the stroke of half-time.
Some of the key takeaways from the match include:
- Zwane’s decision to let Lyle Foster take the penalty was a costly mistake
- Bafana’s lack of creativity in the final third was a major concern
- Nicaragua’s defensive strategy was effective in nullifying Bafana’s attacking threat
As the team prepares to face Jamaica, they will need to work on their attacking strategy and ensure that they are taking their chances. With the South African Football Association throwing its weight behind the team, the players will be looking to make a strong impression in the tournament.
