South Africa’s u17 national men’s team Amajimbos coach Molefi Ntseki has described Sunday’s do or die second leg encounter of the African Youth championships here in Tanzanian capital of Dar es Salaam as test of character for his side.
South Africa’s u17 national men’s team Amajimbos coach Molefi Ntseki has described Sunday’s do or die second leg encounter of the African Youth championships here in Tanzanian capital of Dar es Salaam as test of character for his side.
Amajimbos arrived in this bustling coastal city of East Africa’s biggest country having drawn 1-1 in the first leg played at Dobsonville Stadium two weeks ago.
But typical of the tough talking Ntseki, the commanding mentor says he relishes challenges especially when their backs are against the wall.
Having been involved in some intriguing encounters since taking over the youthful squad three season ago, Ntseki says while most Tanzanians had ruled his side out, the test of the pudding was in the eating.
“Sunday will test the type of character of these boys. I been inculcating into them a sense of self belief; that nothing is impossible in this game of football as long as you are focussed on what you intent to achieve.
We have come here to compete and that we will do it hard on Sunday. Tanzania are of the opinion that it’s game over having come back with a draw but football can kick you in the teeth if you take things for granted,” said the Amajimbos coach.
Sunday’s second leg will take place at Chamazi Sports Complex, a few kilometres outside Dar es Salaam and kicks off at 15h00.
The overall winner of the Tanzania/South Africa game will take on either Namibia or Congo in the final round qualifier in which the ultimate winner will qualify for the African Youth championships in Madagascar early next year.
“My vision is to qualify for Madagascar because qualifying for such major tournaments hardens our players – physically and mentally it prepares them for the international rigours of football.
It is also opens doors for most players who intent to further their international careers. So yes, our vision for now is qualifying for Madagascar,” added Ntseki.