Booth backs South Africa youth

Former South Africa defender Matthew Booth said he is excited ahead of his country’s Africa Cup of Nations clash with Morocco.

Booth believes Bafana improved significantly after the first group match at the continental event against Cape Verde, a 0-0 stalemate, with their performance against Angola – a 2-0 win – changing the perception of South African fans.

“Obviously, it’s going to be an exciting game tonight. Our fans didn’t believe in the boys after the Cape Verde match, but that perception has once again changed,” Booth said.

“Our boys showed a lot of character (against Angola), created a lot of chances which is exactly what the fans want to see,” he said.

The Ajax Cape Town centre-back though, admitted Morocco will be very tough opponents for Bafana and cited their defence as the opponents’ strength.

“Morocco have a good pedigree, they are known for their defensive football. I think it’s going to be a war between our attacking players and their defensive players,” Booth said.

The 35-year-old Booth, who was part of the Bafana team competed in the 2009 Confederations Cup, believes that the national team does not miss his services. He admitted young players should be given an opportunity.

“I don’t think I am being missed, I mean, we are a 50-million population country and there a lot of young talent out there,” said Booth.

“I am 35 now and there is Bongani (Khumalo) and (Siyabonga) Sangweni in that position and I think they have done well for the team.”