SA skipper Ronwen Williams during a match Bafana captain Ronwen Williams says his charges can handle whatever will be thrown at them in their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against hosts Congo on Tuesday evening. Picture: Itumeleng English/ Independent Media
After their 5-0 demolishment of Congo in Gqeberha last week, a vastly different challenge awaits Bafana Bafana away in Brazzaville on Tuesday evening.
Captain Ronwen Williams says they are ready and his charges can handle the pressure.
Kick-off for the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifier is at 6pm, and a win would guarantee Bafana qualification for the tournament scheduled towards the end of 2025 in Morocco.
Bafana were at their best as they rifled in the goals throughout their contest in the Eastern Cape, but along with the crowd there were a number of factors in their favour.
First and foremost would be the playing surface, with the one used at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium being of the highest international standards.
Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos on Ronwen Williams.
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In Congo, however, Bafana will have to adapt to playing on a synthetic surface.
It will be the same for both teams though, and Williams suggests that his side will know how to approach the clash.
“Obviously we know that we are in a different country, and we are not at home. We can feel it, but we have got the experience, and we know how to deal with playing away,” said Williams.
“We have gained valuable experience over the last few years. We have a group of players that have been together for three years now, so it is for us to go out there and do the best we can do, fight, challenge and be determined in every duel and make sure we keep the fans quiet. The fans can give them energy and boost them.”
Bafana coach Hugo Broos, meanwhile, hinted that Congo would be a far tougher challenge at home.
“If they lose tomorrow, qualification for Afcon is over for them. We know what to expect tomorrow against Congo Brazzaville. We are going to play against a team that may be different, and motivated. Tomorrow is a new game,” said Broos.