Broos describes ‘small difference’ that gave Kekana edge over Xulu

Korhogo, Ivory Coast – Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has described the ‘small difference’ that gave Grant Kekana the edge over Siyanda Xulu for the Namibia 2023 AFCON clash.

Bafana emerged 4-0 winners over a hapless Brave Warriors, the biggest win so far in the tournament.
But going into the game, the Belgian mentor made two changes from the team that started against Mali, which proved decisive in the Group E clash.

Broos opted to bring in both Kekana and Thapelo Morena for the clash, with the former replacing Xulu and the latter taking Thapelo Maseko’s place. The changes paid dividends, with Morena providing an assist for the second goal.

Kekana, on the other hand, was solid at the back alongside Mothobi Mvala. After the match, Broos explained his reasoning behind the changes, highlighting the need for pace and tactical variation.

WHY BROOS CHOSE KEKANA OVER XULU

“There’s not so much of a difference between Grant [Kekana] and Siyanda,” Broos said. “The only difference is that Grant is faster. We needed a fast player with [Peter] Shalulile and the running players. Grant is faster. Therefore, we changed it.”

He further clarified that Xulu’s omission was purely tactical rather than because of performance. “Siyanda Xulu didn’t play bad [against Mali], but it was more a tactical choice. Also, Grant [Kekaka] played a very good game today [against Namibia].”

Regarding Morena’s inclusion, Broos emphasised the need for added depth and directness in Bafana’s attack.” With Thapelo [Morena coming in for Thapelo Maseko], we needed depth in our game,” he explained.

“He’s very quick, and we told him not to ask the ball on the feet. Go in the back of the fullback. The second goal is something like that: Thapelo goes deep, good pass, back and a goal.

Broos concluded by expressing his satisfaction with the outcome and crediting his tactical decisions for the positive result.

“The choices we made were tactical,” he declared. “After a 4-0 win, I can say what good choices.”

Bafana Bafana’s victory puts them back on course to qualify for the Round of 16, a fate that hinges on the result in the other Group E match.

They will next face Tunisia on Wednesday, January 25, in what promises to be another crucial encounter in their quest for AFCON glory.

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