Publications
Partners
Jali was part of the Bafana team that shocked world and European champions Spain in November this year, but he admitted Brazil held a special place in his heart.
"It feels good to be back, and it will be exciting to play against Brazil as it will be my first time," Jali said ahead of the game on Monday.
"We will fight for a win even though it is going to be a difficult match. As players, we don’t have to be motivated because just being in the squad to play Brazil is enough motivation."
Jali, who recently joined Belgian outfit KV Oostende, said Bafana were unified in their fight for a win against the world number-nine-ranked Samba Boys.
"We did well against Spain because we were playing as a team, and if we continue with the same mentality we will do well again."
Meanwhile, defender Thabo Nthethe echoed Jali's sentiments, adding that South Africa could repeat the heroics of the game against Spain in November.
"Every player is excited to play Brazil and we are all hoping to be in the starting line-up for such a big occasion," Nthethe said.
Nthethe will come up against some of the world's most attack-minded players, with the likes of Barcelona's Neymar, Chelsea's Oscar and Manchester City's Fernandinho expected to bombard the Bafana defence with their silky smooth skills, coupled with blistering pace on the flanks.
"All the players who are here know how Brazil plays, and I believe we have all been studying their moves as to how we can counter them," he said.
"In fact I even have a picture in my mind of how to face a world-class player like Neymar, but we all know it will not be easy. We have done some homework on them and we know what to expect."
The Mamelodi Sundowns centre-back urged supporters to come in their numbers as the Bafana team were motivated by playing in front of big crowds.
"We hope not to disappoint them, but aim for a win to put some smiles on their faces," Nthethe said.
