Siphiwe Tshabalala Assesses AFCON 2023 Group E and Gives His Verdict on South Africa’s Chances

• Siphiwe Tshabalala is in Ivory Coast as part of the CAF delegation of former stars
• 'Shabba' has shared his thoughts on the teams standing in Bafana Bafana's way
• South Africa will begin their AFCON 2023 journey this evening against Mali

The final countdown to the beginning of South Africa's AFCON 2023 campaign has begun.

In a matter of hours, Hugo Broos' team will step out in northern Ivory Coast to do battle with Mali.

Former players have graced the grandstands throughout the opening fixtures of the tournament, with South Africa's famous flag being flown by its favourite left-footed maestro.

Siphiwe Tshabalala has been in Ivory Coast soaking up the atmosphere and he has given his assessment of where South Africa stands in Group E

Following the opening date with Mali, South Africa take on Namibia in a must-win tie before their final group game against another former champion, Tunisia.

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Tshabalala has described Mali as a 'decent team that will be competitive. In this assessment relayed by KickOff, the former Kaizer Chiefs legend then said Namibia were a team that could not be undermined.

In summarising what he thought was a 'tough group', he said Tunisia were experienced, tactical, disciplined and technical.

Turning his attention to his old team, 'Shabba' stated that he was pleased to see Bafana Bafana back on the continent's premier stage.

"Each and every team that is here deserves to be here. This is a big stage, big occasion and everyone wants to be counted. I strongly believe that we have a chance."

Tshabalala made 90 appearances for his country, scoring 12 goals. He played in the 2006, 2008 and 2013 AFCON, making six appearances without hitting the back of the net, as listed by TransferMarkt.

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South Africa's AFCON Big 5

Sports Brief recently compiled a list of five players whose performances will be key for Bafana Bafana.

The core of the squad is from a club that has proven experience when playing top-tier African opposition.

'The Lion of Judah' will relish the opportunity of stealing the limelight on the continent's grandest stage.