Publications
Partners
Cape Town - South Africa Football Association President Danny Jordaan says Friday night's crucial fixture against Cape Verde Island might herald the beginning of a decisive phase on Bafana Bafana’s road to Russia.
Speaking on Wednesday in Praia, Cape Verde the President said a win will set things nicely for a series of events that will see the senior national team qualify for Russia.
"We landed at Nelson Mandela International Airport in Praia on Tuesday evening and that on its own should be an inspiration for the team," said Jordaan on the official SAFA website.
"It brings us those memories when the Father of the Nation used to employ his magic to drive the national teams to dizzy heights.
"Can you imagine if we get the three points here; then the other three points in Durban? Can you imagine the atmosphere that will greet Burkina Faso when they visit FNB Stadium next in October? I tell you, you will see 90 000 people packed at Soccer City to inspire the team to Russia.
Following a good victory over Senegal, Jordaan said the belief in the team was coming back and 6 points over Cape Verde will set up a titanic war against Burkina Faso in October.
"Our ideal scenario is to go to Dakar, Senegal for our final FIFA World Cup qualifier just to fulfill the encounter. We want to go there having sealed qualification to Russia. I believe Praia is the beginning of that thrilling journey," he said.
South Africa last qualified for the FIFA World Cup in 2002 when they qualified for Korea/Japan and although they participated in 2010 World Cup, it was purely because they were the hosts of the competition.
"But here we are, we are believing again. This team has all the characteristics to do us proud. This team will take us to Russia," he said.
Kick off is at 20:30.
