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Mbalula stands behind Bafana

Johannesburg - Sports Minister Fikile Mbalula has called on Bafana Bafana to make the nation proud ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) match against Angola on Wednesday. "Do what you are supposed to do to the best of your abilities, and what will define the end result of your fight is the score," he said.

"You came here to defend the interest of the country. Be ready to fight and defend your nation until the end."

Mbalula visited Bafana at their hotel in Durban ahead of their second match, at the Moses Mabhida stadium.

Bafana were held to a goal-less draw by Cape Verde in the tournament opener in Johannesburg on Saturday.

"Do not surrender, because some people perform much better under pressure and they end up doing miracles.

"Take your chances, squander them if possible, but at the end of the day you will leave the field knowing that you tried."

"You are being challenged, and I think you have to take the bull by its horns. There is no retreat, you guys have the guts and your God-given talent, do your best and enjoy the game. Win or lose - we are with you."

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