Midfielder Themba Zwane has opened up his second consecutive Man of the Match performance as Bafana Bafana sealed a spot in the last 16 of the AFCON.
Needing just a point to progress to the knockout stages, South Africa was made sweat by a Tunisia side in desperate need of a victory to stay alive in the continental showpiece.
Although no cards were shown, the encounter was a highly physical contest. Bafana made 13 fouls while Tunisia committed 9. Zwane, who put in yet another inspired display that earned him his second consecutive Man of the Match award.
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Speaking to media after the match, the talismanic attacker said his side expected a tough encounter.
"I'm happy that we qualified, I'm happy for the team. We did well as a team," Zwane said.
"First of all, we know as a team it would be difficult and physical because we watched their games, there was a lot of physicality.
"So, we had to fight as a team, to stand up for ourselves and that is what we did as a team. At the same time, we wanted to a voice unnecessary yellow card and tried to be calm but give them a fight.
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Up next for Bafana is a last 16 clash against 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-finalists Morocco but Zwane insisted Bafana have already proven that they can go toe-to-toe with any team.
"First of all, the rest will be good for us to try and bring the body back. In terms of quality, we have shown the quality that we have," Zwane added.
"We have the quality to compete and try to push ourselves. When we play In the Champions League, we know the level is high here. We can compete and go forward."
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