Baxter can take a breather
2005-07-12 21:52
Johannesburg - Bafana Bafana coach Stuart Baxter has some breathing space at
last.
His side has exceeded all expectations at the Concacaf Gold Cup in the United
States of America, reaching the quarter-finals with one match to play in the group stage.
The squad arrived in Houston, Texas on Tuesday. They play Group C strugglers
Guatemala in the final round robin game at the Reliant Stadium on Wednesday night (01:45 SA time on Thursday).
^Said Baxter: "My feet have not touched the ground since we arrived in the United States last
week. It has been an incredible tournament for us.
It has been hard work getting the players prepared. But the lads, who are inexperienced at this
level, have responded magnificently. They have done South Africa proud."
Baxter will have a pleasant task when he sits down to pick his side against Guatemala.
"We are not under any pressure, having reached the quarter-finals.
"I do not want to chop and change too much. I want to keep the momentum going. I want to
win every game. But this match is of academic interest and I have injuries to consider.
"I will not take any chances ahead of the quarter-finals. I want my best squad available. But I
will try to rotate players."
Baxter is aware that a win over Guatemala the central American country would see Bafana win
the group and get an easier quarter-final tie.
Baxter said about the clash: "At the start of the tournament, we would have been happy to
get a result against Guatemala. Now, after beating Mexico 2-1 and drawing with Jamaica 3-3,
the picture has changed. But we cannot take it easy."
Baxter says the win over the world's sixth best country Mexico is one of Bafana's best
results.
"It was unbelievable. The Latin American press have given Bafana rave reviews. I am
delighted for the lads," said Baxter.
- Daily Sun