Mamelodi Sundowns Dominance Gives South Africa Advantage, Says Morocco Coach Ahead of AFCON Clash

• South Africa take on World Cup semi-finalists, Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations last 16
• Walid Regragui has acknowledged the Mamelodi Sundowns presence in the Bafana squad
• Nine players from Sundowns are part of the 23-man squad selected by coach, Hugo Broos

Morocco's head coach, Walid Regragui, has acknowledged Bafana Bafana's advantage due to the dominance of Mamelodi Sundowns players in their squad.

South Africa's current 23-man Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) squad features nine players from the Premier Soccer League (PSL) champions, known for their formidable presence in African club football.

Despite the Brazilians’ domestic dominance and success in the African Football League (AFL), the CAF Champions League has remained elusive.

However, Regragui stressed that the confidence gained from the club's achievements could positively impact the Bafana Bafana squad.

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The coach noted that South Africa is a different team with its spirit and identity, highlighting the tactical flexibility observed during the group stage.

He expressed respect, stressing the need for Morocco to fight to secure victory in the upcoming game.

"I respect your team, your national team, and what I said about Sundowns is that your team has more than seven players, playing for Sundowns. It provides habits for your team, a team that has confidence on the continent," Regragui said, as quoted by iDiski Times.

Reflecting on the Atlas Lions' achievements, the coach mentioned their status as World Cup semi-finalists in Qatar 2022 and their current top ranking in Africa (first) and globally (13th).

Bafana aiming for AFCON upset against Morocco

Despite South Africa's absence in the 2022 World Cup and a lower ranking, coach Hugo Broos' side displayed resilience in progressing past Group E.

The team booked their last 16 spot after playing out to a 0-0 draw with an underwhelming Tunisia in their last match on January 24, as reported by Far Post.

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The upcoming clash between Morocco and Bafana Bafana is anticipated to be a close encounter, with South Africa having a good head-to-head record.

Recent ties between the two sides have been competitive and the game's outcome remains uncertain. The match is scheduled for Tuesday, January 30, at the Laurent Poukou Stadium in San Pedro.

Zwane confident ahead of Morocco AFCON clash

Meanwhile, Themba Zwane is optimistic about Bafana's chances of reaching the AFCON 2023 final.

South Africa previously defeated Morocco in the competition qualifiers with a 2-1 victory at home.

Zwane believes his team has what it takes to surpass the Atlas Lions despite their lesser standing.