On January 23, Group A will kick off its second day of the group stages in CAN 2013. Morocco, Angola, South Africa, and Cape Verde each have one point after starting the first day with draws.
Cape Verde managed to hold off the host country, South Africa (0-0), in the opening match, while Morocco and Angola also played to a draw with the same score (0-0).
Following their disappointing start, Bafana-Bafana will attempt to redeem themselves against the Palancas Negras of Angola. Another setback would significantly diminish their chances of qualifying for the quarter-finals, and the players from the Rainbow Nation will be under immense pressure. South Africa cannot afford further mistakes in front of their home supporters. They will face an Angolan team that can rely on the formidable presence of Manucho to make a significant impact.
In the second match, the Atlas Lions will take on the Cape Verde Blue Sharks. Making their debut in the CAN, Cape Verde caused a stir by securing a draw against South Africa in the tournament’s opening match. In their second group outing, the Sharks will aim for more than a draw to enhance their chances of progressing to the second round. Meanwhile, Morocco has not displayed its best form so far. The return of Younes Belhanda as a starter could potentially change the team’s dynamics. Moroccan midfielder Kamel Chafni emphasizes the importance of victory against Cape Verde, stating, “There are no favorites at the CAN. Last year, we saw a team like Zambia, coming from nowhere, win the CAN, and the same with Ivory Coast. All the teams are very good. Cape Verde eliminated Cameroon, that’s not insignificant. We do not take this match lightly; we know that it will be complicated, or even harder than against Angola. But if we want to hope to advance to the 2nd round, a victory is imperative.”
