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Bulgaria boss salutes Bafana

Johannesburg - Bulgaria coach Stanimir Stoilov conceded that his side were lucky to leave Orlando Stadium with a 1-1 draw after being outplayed by Bafana Bafana on Monday night.

Gallery: Bafana in action

The Soccer World Cup hosts opened the scoring at a packed house in the 20th minute via the head of Siyabonga Sangweni, but Valeri Bojinov levelled matters 11 minutes later.

South Africa looked slick in possession and an improvement in their passing could once again be noted.

Stoilov thus admitted: "It was a good result, but maybe Bafana deserved to win. Tactically it was a good game from both teams and outstanding for Bafana were midfielders Teko Modise and Siphiwe Tshabalala."

Parreira would have also liked a victory, but is delighted with the way his side is taking shape.

"We are on track and my team is taking shape. This was the type of team we will meet at the World Cup next month - both physically and mentally - and it was a good experience as we matched them every step of the way," he said.

"Bulgaria have been together for three weeks and know each other. They made us fight.

"They are an experienced side and proved to be quality opponents who tested us and we passed that test.

"I always say the best result is to win a game, but sometimes... a draw is a good result. I am more than satisfied with the draw.

"It shows we are on course with just over two weeks and three friendly warm-up matches to go before we play Mexico."

The Brazilian has been impressed with Bafana's passing and ball retention, but wants them to up the ante in the upcoming games.

"Our ball possession is good but we need to start penetrating defences more. But that is something I will work on ahead of the Colombia match, which will be another important step," he added. 
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