Congo national team coach Isaac N'Gata has admitted his side did not show Bafana Bafana respect on Tuesday night, when they earned an important point to keep their hopes of qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations alive.
Bafana were unable to replicate their 5-0 win over Congo last week as they had to settle for a 1-1 stalemate with the Red Devils in Brazzaville.
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South Africa took the lead in the 33rd minute through Esperance de Tunis winger Elias Mokwena.
Congo equalised just 10 minutes later in stoppage time, however, through French-born striker Mons Bassouamina, to ensure that the two sides headed into the break with the score level.
With no more goals arriving before the final whistle, the head coach of the home side has stated he is pleased with the result, praising his side for not giving Bafana too much respect.
"I don't have regrets because I believe that the players gave everything. The game plan was respected to the letter," N'Gata said in a post-match press conference, according to DRCPF, h/t Joueurs Congolais.
"We didn't respect this team, which is one of the best in Africa. We showed that we were capable.
"We did exactly what we had to do, the commitment, the game plan was respected. This team put us in difficulty, but we came out of it with a very happy draw.
"... We're going to refocus and get the remaining six points because everything is still possible. We have to aim for things as they are.
"Our defence held it together, the goalkeeper was good. The strikers did what I asked and what we worked on with the staff. What was missing was another goal."
Reflecting on what Congo did differently this time after the encounter at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium last Friday, N'Gata said: "The difference between the two matches? I don't think Congo reaches a level like they reached today.
"We suffered throughout the match. We didn't have an answer on the way they played. We almost didn't have any chances.
"So in that sense, I think we can be very happy to have played a draw today."
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