Broos Explains Lepasa Decision – iDiski Times

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has explained why he opted to start the must-win Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Liberia with Zakhele Lepasa leading his line.

The Belgian tactician raised eyebrows ahead of the game by making five changes to the team that drew 2-2 with the Lone Stars at Orlando Stadium on Friday.

Aubrey Modiba, Luke Le Roux, Bongokuhle Hlongwane, Themba Zwane and Lyle Foster were replaced by Innocent Maela, Sphephelo Sithole, Mihlali Mayambela, Nyiko Mobbie and Lepasa.

In particular the switch upfront raised eyebrows after Foster scored both goals in the first leg, but Broos confirmed he wanted more pressure off the ball, while the Burnley striker also didn’t feel 100% in the morning.

“Yeah, that was not so good Friday, we didn’t have depth in our in our game,” he said at the post-match press conference.

“When we lost the ball, there was not immediately pressing. And I know with Zakhele, he’s a guy who runs 90 minutes, he scored a fantastic goal. He’s very quick.

“And he was always there, all the game he was present. So that’s why we changed Zakhele.

“And also, I have to say that Lyle didn’t feel well this morning. We wouldn’t take a risk, because we knew that we needed players who were 100%. And, again, I think the decision was right.”

Lepasa scored the opener for Bafana after 19 minutes before Liberia equalised before Williams Jebor equalised in the 35th minute.

In the second half, Mayambela restored Bafana’s lead, and Broos’ men managed to defend it until the final whistle to book their ticket for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations.