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Aaron Mokoena unfazed by Amajimbos’ AFCON Group of Death  |

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Amajimbos assistant coach Aaron Mokoena is unfazed by the CAF 2023 U17 Africa Cup of Nations [AFCON] draw that was conducted on Wednesday, 1 February 2023.

The former Bafana Bafana captain reckons that all the 12 nations set to participate in the tournament are the best in the African continent. 

He went on to say that it will be the matter of who performs better on the day. 

South Africa have learned their fate in the U17 AFCON tournament due to be held in Algeria. 

Duncan Crowie’s charges are drawn in Group B alongside the two-time winners Nigeria, Morocco and neighbours Zambia.

The draw was conducted by CAF director of competitions Khaed Nasser, who was assisted by African football legends Ibrahim Bekakchi from Algeria and Herita Ilunga of DR Congo. 

AARON MOKOENA UNFAZED BY AMAJIMBOS’ GROUP OF DEATH

“Look, I think all the teams that have qualified for AFCON are the best teams in Africa,” Mokoena told FARPost. 

“Every team that in the tournament is supposed to be a tough team to play against. 

“So, the talks around the Group of Death I don’t really want to entertain what people are saying [we are in the Group of Death]. After all, everyone is entitled to their own opinions.”

Amajimbos squad that participated in the COSAFA U17 Boys Championship in Malawi late last year.
Amajimbos squad that participated in the COSAFA U17 Boys Championship in Malawi late last year

ALL GROUPS ARE TOUGH GROUPS

The 42-year-old mentor continued: “I mean, all these groups are tough groups. That’s why they have qualified for Africa Cup of Nations. 

“We have great respect for all the teams we are going to play against. It’s going to be a great experience for these boys. 

“We are in a development stage, so they have to play difficult games to gain experience and to developed properly.” 

The eagerly-awaited competition will commence from April 29 to May 19, 2023. 

Three stadiums will host the tournament. The three are the Nelson Mandela Stadium, Chahid Hamlaoui Stadium and the May 19, 1956 Stadium.

AFCON U17 FULL DRAW

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