Sithole: I didn’t Have A Good Game Against Mexico

Bafana Bafana midfielder Siphephelo Sithole has praised the unwavering support he received from his teammates and coaching staff after a difficult FIFA World Cup opener against Mexico, as South Africa prepare for a must-win clash against South Korea on Thursday at Estadio Monterrey.

Sithole endured a night to forget in Bafana Bafana’s opening Group A encounter against Mexico.

The 27-year-old made a costly error that led to Mexico’s goal after failing to control a pass from captain Ronwen Williams. His evening went from bad to worse when he was shown a red card following a foul, ruling him out of South Africa’s second group-stage match.

Following the game, Sithole came under intense criticism from South African football supporters, with many identifying his mistake and subsequent dismissal as decisive moments in the defeat.

However, the midfielder says the backing he received from within the squad played a crucial role in helping him overcome the disappointment.

“What I think is that I know I didn’t have a good game in the first match, but I think the support that I got from the team was good,” said Sithole.

“Everyone was supportive. Even the coach supported me very well, so I’m very grateful for that. I think that’s what makes us a very good team because, other than being teammates, we have very good human beings in our group.”

Having served his suspension, Sithole is once again available for selection as Bafana Bafana head into their final Group A fixture knowing that only a victory will keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive.

South Africa currently sit fourth in Group A with just one point from their opening two matches, leaving them with no margin for error against South Korea.

Because South Africa drew 1-1 with the Czech Republic on Thursday, a win against South Korea takes them to 4 points—which guarantees them either second place or a top-tier look at a best third-placed spot for the Round of 32.

Sithole acknowledged the challenge that awaits Hugo Broos’ side and highlighted the intensity of competing on football’s biggest stage.

“Let’s talk about the intensity. I think everybody knows that the World Cup is the biggest stage in football, so if you talk about the intensity here, it’s very high,” he added.

“Obviously, we are playing against a very good side. We know their qualities and we know how they play because we have done our analysis. As the coach has said, the only thing we need to do on Thursday is win the game if we want to qualify.

“And I think we are more than motivated for that, and we just can’t wait for tomorrow.”

With qualification still within reach, Bafana Bafana will be hoping Sithole’s return can provide an added boost, especially with Teboho Mokoena suspended, as they chase a crucial victory over South Korea and a place in the FIFA World Cup knockout rounds.