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Cape Town - Goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune admitted that he and the Bafana Bafana technical team had to make a last minute decision on whether to play or not in Saturday’s 1-1 draw against the Stallions of Burkina Faso in Ouagadougou.
The Bafana number one keeper had an upset stomach the previous night which continued until a few moments before kick-off.
The diligent shot stopper confirmed the team doctor had prescribed him a dosage of medicine the night before the game, but said that it didn’t seem to work.
"I had to drink Coca Cola on the way to the stadium and somehow that did the trick. I was still having cramps here and there but told myself, I have to do it for my country," a tired looking Khune was quoted as saying on the SAFA website.
Khune was called on to make several crucial saves, especially in the first half and despite conceding a late goal, was unanimously voted man of the match after the game.
Though gutted at conceding a late goal, Khune said that Bafana could build their campaign from this positive start.
"It could have been better had we held on for all the three points, but we can settle for that point. It is a good point nevertheless.
"Our problem is that we defended too deep after taking the lead and somehow something was bound to give in. Having said that, I still think we have ourselves to blame for not holding firm till the end; but that is football."
Khune said that all teams in the group, which comprise of Burkina Faso, Senegal and Cape Verde, were beatable, adding that it was vital for Bafana to start winning big at home.
"We must make all our home matches a must-win and then collect a point or win away from home. We can do that," he concluded.
