By Obakeng Maje

The South African National Under 17 Men’s National Team (Amajimbos) is confident of getting a positive result when they take on Ghana in the second leg, third round match of the Africa Youth Championship qualifier.

The match takes place on Saturday, 01 December 2012 at the Essipong Stadium in Ghana.

Kick-off is 15h00 local time in Ghana (17h00 SA time).

The South Africans have arrived safely and have already had one training session, with the final one scheduled for today (Friday, 30 November) at the match venue.

Amajimbos lost the first leg 3-2 in the first leg played two weeks ago at the Sinaba Stadium in Daveyton, Johannesburg.

But coach Ephraim ‘Shakes’ Mashaba is not very concerned.
“We are aware of the advantage the Ghanaians have but we don’t want to dwell on the past. This is a new match for both teams.

“I have emphasised to my players to go out there and try to get a win. If we are determined and committed, results will take care of themselves. If Ghana managed to score three goals away from home, I don’t see the reason why we can’t do the same away from home. We have as much chance of qualifying as they do but we have to work for it,” said Mashaba.

Mashaba has also cautioned his players not to be overawed by the home crowd.

“Fortunately we don’t have any injuries and the boys are adjusting well to the hot and humid conditions here in Ghana. My players know what to expect in this crucial qualifier.”

The overall winner of this encounter will qualify for the 10th Edition of the African U-17 Youth Championship scheduled to take place in Morocco from 13 – 27 April 2013.

Here is the SA U17 squad in Ghana: