South Africa coach Hugo Broos says his side is motivated for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final against Nigeria.
Broos guided the 1996 champions past Cape Verde on penalties on Saturday to set up a last-four clash with the Super Eagles.
The Belgian believes the achievement can boost South African football after many had written off their chances before the tournament.
“We are delighted and motivated that we play tomorrow in the semi-finals of the AFCON, for many people, it was unexpected but we did it and ensured South Africa became a good team and also it’s more than 20 years ago that South Africa played in the semi-finals and even more than that we played in the finals, so what that means is that we have a lot of motivation,” he said.
The Belgian tactician admitted to Nigeria’s quality but maintained his confidence in his squad for the crucial game.
“We are playing against a good team tomorrow, number 6 in the ranking, that means a lot for players playing for us.
Nigeria have had the upper hand on South Africa in recent meetings but it’s not a worrying situation for Hugo Broos.
“For many, Nigeria are the favourite to win but it’s not always the case in football, we are confident and motivated to try and ensure it doesn’t happen and South Africa will play in the final for the first time in 20 years,” he concluded.
Cafonline
