Gordon breathes easier

His attention now shifts from holding thumbs on whether he will get all 23 players he selected, to planning on winning the country their first Chan title. All the players he selected, including the Kaizer Chiefs players, made the trip to Cape Town where they will be based in what has been termed the “group of death”.

Last-minute negotiations ensured Igesund will have a strong squad in a group that has neighbours Mozambique, who Bafana Bafana face first in the Mother City on Saturday afternoon, Mali and bitter rivals Nigeria.

“It is a fact that the start of the preparations has not been ideal, but we remain positive because the players really want to be here and play for their country,” Igesund said.

“We are in a tough group but we will make it happen because by the time the tournament start we will be ready. I believe I have chosen a strong team which is well-balanced.

“We will do our best to win the tournament to get that winning feeling, and we will play the kind of football that is expected from us which is running and exciting football.”

As teams trickle into the country for the third edition of Chan, Bafana Bafana will start their preparations properly this week before their opening match against Mozambique on Saturday.

“It has been trying times over the last few weeks but I want to thank the teams for making this happen because it has been tough for all of us,” Igesund said.

“Several meetings have been held and we now have the players we need for the tournament. We are very grateful and appreciate the support of everyone because it was not easy. I am glad because the national team belongs to all of us and it is important to have the best players.”