Online Reporter
FORMER Zimbabwe international Matthew Rusike has delivered a measured assessment of Africa Cup of Nations Group B, describing it as one of the most competitive pools in the tournament.
The group features seven‑time champions Egypt, South Africa’s Bafana Bafana, Angola and Zimbabwe.
While history and recent form appear to favour the North Africans and South Africa, Rusike insists reputation alone will not determine who progresses.
“It’s never an easy group for any nation, it’s tight, you know African football, anything can happen during the tournament,” Rusike told KickOff.com.
“Zimbabwe do have a good team that can challenge. Angola can also give you a tough run, so it is a group where no one should underestimate another one.
“But the reality is that Egypt and South Africa are the most favourites from the group because Egypt has many players who are playing abroad in big leagues and can pose a challenge.”
The former Cape Town City striker highlighted South Africa’s recent progress, pointing to their strong performances in both World Cup and Afcon qualifiers.
“On the other side, Bafana Bafana have been doing well, they did exceptionally well in both the World Cup and the Afcon qualifiers,” he said.
“South Africa has good players, who are doing well in the PSL, they know how to win with local players, especially from Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates. Actually, Bafana are one of the top teams in the whole tournament.
“But, without underestimating South Africa, in Group B, Egypt appear to be the most favourite to win the group. But I will always support my country, Zimbabwe, to go and show that they can do the job.”
Zimbabwe open their campaign against Egypt, while Bafana Bafana face Angola in the other Group B clash – fixtures that could set the tone for the group from the very first kick‑off. — KickOff.com/Sports Reporter
