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Bafana just have to keep the belief, says Maela

Cape Town - Orlando Pirates defender Innocent Maela believes Bafana Bafana can do well at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt if they believe in their abilities.

Bafana have been drawn in what some have termed the 'Group of Death' in Group D as they are up against Morocco, Ivory Coast and Namibia.

Nonetheless, Maela, who was a part of the South Africa squad that recently qualified for the tournament after a victory against Libya, is confident they can progress.

He said: "I think it's a tough group, but it's very important to also understand that Bafana Bafana at this point in time, the squad are in a very good space.

"The belief is high and I'm confident the team will go there and do well.

"we are not scared of anyone, but we also understand the importance of preparation.

"I'd like to say that we really have a good technical team, they always prepare the team really well and that, as a player, it gives you confidence and courage to go into the field of play with a lot of belief.

"So, yeah, it's a very tough group, but the team is in a good space and we know we are a good group, we just have to keep the belief amongst us."

Bafana Bafana will kick-off the tournament against powerhouses Ivory Coast on Monday, June 24, 2019.

Four days later, Stuart Baxter's charges take on Namibia (Friday, June 28) and round off the group stages with a tricky encounter against Morocco on Monday, July 1.

Should South Africa progress to the knockout stages they would take part in the Round of 16 beginning on July 5, with the quarter-finals on July 10/11, the semi-finals on July 14 and the final taking place on July 19.

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