Minister of Sport and Recreation South Africa the Honourable Fikile Mbalula visited Bafana Bafana at their Cape Town hotel to wish the team well ahead of their 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Qualifier against the Central African Republic (CAR).

Kickoff is at 20h15.

“We have to win this match because it is imperative for us as South Africa to go to Brazil. It is important for you, your friends and families and for the entire country. We are behind you all the way. You have a chance to engrave your names in the history books by helping this country qualify for the World Cup in Brazil, so you have to give your best,” said Minister Mbalula.

The Minister also handed the squad members their playing kit individually, urging them “to do the country proud.”

Earlier in the day Bafana Bafana head coach Gordon Igesund addressed the media in Cape Town.

“This is a must-win for us, I am aware of it and the players are also conscious of the task ahead of them. I know my starting 11 and I am confident we will do well.

“A draw will not help us, it is not an option; it will only make things more difficult for us because Ethiopia and CAR still have to play at home, so it is important to get a win. We just have to apply ourselves on Saturday and leave nothing to chance. Going away will be very challenging but my boys have shown character that they will be able to fight all the way,” said Igesund.

“CAR are difficult to beat so we cannot take them lightly. They will come here looking for just a point, but we can’t afford that. I saw them come from behind against Egypt so we have to have plan A, B and C to ensure we get maximum points.”

After initial worries that the pitch might not be in perfect playing condition at the Cape Town Stadium, the Bafana Bafana mentor is happy that it has improved significantly.

“Before we committed this match to Cape Town, we spoke to the stadium management about the pitch and they assured us that it will be ready. Two days ago I went to inspect it with my technical team and I saw a beautiful pitch, so I am very happy. I have to compliment them I was surprised with what I saw; it is very magnificent,” added Igesund.

Bafana Bafana will have their last training session on Friday morning (22 March) at the Athlone Stadium.