Patrick Maswanganyi controls the ball during a league match against Kaizer Chiefs FILE - Patrick Maswanganyi controls the ball during a league match against Kaizer Chiefs. Photo: Phill Magakoe/AFP
Orlando Pirates legend Benedict Vilakazi believes Patrick Maswanganyi had some good moments in Bafana Bafana’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifying draw against Congo on Tuesday.
However, a lack of continental experience meant the Buccaneers star was not able to impose himself and dictate matters after coming on as a 40th minute substitute for the injured Themba Zwane.
During the game, South Africa were second best after Zwane came off, and Maswanganyi came under some criticism from sections of supporters.
However, “Tso” believes the Pirates talisman had a good game despite his shortcomings.
“He had good touches. It’s just when you make a mistake, we will be on your case, especially when we see that the game is so tight,” Vilakazi was quoted by iDiskiTimes.
“When you get that opportunity or even half a chance, you need to make it count. He had a decent game; he didn’t lose balls too much. He was there controlling the ball, and he had good passes.
“He was supposed to compliment his game by tapping in from that cross which I believe was the only chance we had. He had a decent game, and I think the more he’s going to play he’ll get used to the guys, get used to the system, get used to playing.
“That’s why it’s so important for our teams to play CAF games. You can see that if he was used to playing on a high tempo against the guys in Africa it was going to be easier for him.
“I mean you could see at times he made some runs to chase where he wasn’t supposed to chase. It tells you that the experience of not playing in CAF also counts but I’m happy with his performance.”
With Zwane set for a lengthy injury lay-off, Maswanganyi looks set for more game time in the colours of the national team.
IOL Sport
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