Two high-profile matches are scheduled in South Africa in August as part of the Nelson Mandela Challenge. Normally held in November, the event has been moved to August to coincide with the 95th birthday celebrations of the former president of the Rainbow Nation, who is currently hospitalized.
On August 14, Bafana Bafana will go up against Nigeria, the reigning African champions, followed by a match against Burkina Faso, the continent’s vice-champions, on the 17th. These two prestigious matches are expected to provide excellent preparation for South Africa ahead of the final round of 2014 World Cup qualifiers.
Currently in second place with 8 points, South Africa has a chance to qualify for Brazil, especially with Ethiopia, the group leader, facing point deductions. South Africa is set to face Botswana in the upcoming qualifiers.
