Share

Navas tips 'electric' SA for greatness

Cape Town - Costa Rica captain and Real Madrid star Keylor Navas says the South Africa have the potential to dominate global football if they keep their feet on the ground and believe in themselves.

The popular star is surprised Bafana Bafana are not dominating the African continent with the type of football they play.

The mild-mannered goalkeeper who is a cult hero in this Central American country of around 5 million inhabitants said South Africans are talented, mobile and can destroy any team on a given day.

"Looking at how they competed here, I am still surprised that South Africa is not dominating Africa and even most top countries in the world," said Navas who is adored in this part of the world.

"If they play this type of football on regular basis then surely they should be among the giants in the world.

"They are electric fast, can pass the ball with high tempo and hardly lose possession when they are in charge."

The Real Madrid star said he was impressed by the South African culture of football.

“It is quite different from either the European or South or Central American style. Their football is refreshing and exciting to see.

"I suppose they need to play against top sides in the world in order to express themselves more and dominate on regular basis,” added Navas.

The international star was beaten by a cheeky Andile Jali lob on the 9th minute but Navas said Jali was only among a myriad of great players in the Bafana Bafana squad.

“I am not trying to impress anyone. If anything, no one normally praises your vanquisher but we need to give credit where it is due, South Africa are a good football playing nation and that is a fact,” concluded Navas.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1124 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1296 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 1992 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE