Johannesburg - Bafana Bafana midfielder Siphiwe Tshabalala has revealed his pride at leading the national team out in Cairo on Sunday night.
GALLERY: Egypt v Bafana Bafana
South Africa claimed a valuable point from their clash with Egypt as they moved one step closer to wrapping up qualification for the 2012 African Cup of Nations.
With captain Steven Pienaar ruled out of the match due to injury, Tshabalala was entrusted with wearing the armband and the Kaizer Chiefs midfielder admits it was a special night for him.
"It was a great honour for me to lead the team in the absence of Steven in this all-important match. Him being with us in Cairo really inspired all of us," said 'Shabba' after the match.
"Given a chance again I would do it."
Bafana Bafana fought hard for their point at the Military Academy Stadium, although Tshabalala believes the victory was there for the taking - especially when you consider the chances Katlego Mphela and Tlou Segolela were presented with.
"To get a draw in Cairo was just amazing and I believe we could have still won it," Tshabalala added.
"The boys worked their socks off and this was a well-deserved point, this team is growing in stature and we are clearly heading in the right direction.
"It was tough but worth it."
GALLERY: Egypt v Bafana Bafana
South Africa claimed a valuable point from their clash with Egypt as they moved one step closer to wrapping up qualification for the 2012 African Cup of Nations.
With captain Steven Pienaar ruled out of the match due to injury, Tshabalala was entrusted with wearing the armband and the Kaizer Chiefs midfielder admits it was a special night for him.
"It was a great honour for me to lead the team in the absence of Steven in this all-important match. Him being with us in Cairo really inspired all of us," said 'Shabba' after the match.
"Given a chance again I would do it."
Bafana Bafana fought hard for their point at the Military Academy Stadium, although Tshabalala believes the victory was there for the taking - especially when you consider the chances Katlego Mphela and Tlou Segolela were presented with.
"To get a draw in Cairo was just amazing and I believe we could have still won it," Tshabalala added.
"The boys worked their socks off and this was a well-deserved point, this team is growing in stature and we are clearly heading in the right direction.
"It was tough but worth it."