DESPITE taking a healthy 2-0 lead into tomorrow’s second leg of their penultimate Africa Nations Championship (Chan) qualifier against Botswana at Rustenburg’s Moruleng Stadium (3pm), Bafana Bafana are looking to improve.
That was the point made by Bafana’s experienced midfielder Cole Alexander, who played a pivotal role in helping Stuart Baxter’s side beat the Zebras 2-0 in the first leg played in Francistown last weekend.
Alexander (27), who also was part of Baxter’s Cosafa Cup side that won the Plate competition, has benefited from his call-up.
He suffered a serious injury last season and only returned to action for his club, SuperSport United, late in the season.
Alexander was added to Baxter’s Cosafa Cup squad at the 11th hour to replace injured Aubrey Ngoma before the quarterfinal against Tanzania.
Said Alexander: “We did well to beat Botswana 2-0 away. But there is room for improvement and we need to focus on the home leg to make sure we get through to the next round.”
Alexander said he was grateful for his call-up. He did so well in the Cosafa Cup that Baxter kept him on for the two Chan qualifiers.
Said the player: “The training and game-time has helped me build my confidence and get my fitness back. I did not have a holiday but I’m thankful to the coach (Baxter) for this chance. I was happy to give up my holiday when I got the call-up.
“I have benefited so much from being here. I feel stronger going into the Botswana game and for the new PSL season.”
Alexander said there was a tremendous team spirit: “The players are in high spirits. That is down to the coach and technical team. Coach Baxter has taught us a lot and is a great motivator.
“We’ve trained well and are well equipped to beat Botswana.”
This will be Alexander’s third match against Botswana in as many weeks. Bafana beat Botswana 2-0 in the Cosafa Plate semifinal at the same venue recently.
Added the midfielder: “We work well as a team. Tactically we’ve been better than Botswana, and if I get picked again I’ll grab the chance with both hands and give my best. It is important to qualify for the next round. We don’t want to let our country down.”
Another victory for Bafana will see them through to the final round where they will meet Zambia on a home-and-away basis next month.
