Africa Cup of Nations 2013: Hosts’ attacking approach worked – Igesund

Gordon Igesund admitted South Africa’s attacking approach paid dividends after the hosts stayed in control of their African Cup of Nations destiny with victory over Angola.

In a much-improved South African showing from the tournament opener, Siyabonga Sangweni and Lehlohonolo Majoro’s goals saw Bafana Bafana take control of Pool A.

And Igesund – who made five changes from his side against Cape Verde – noted the freedom with which his players performed.

“I gambled today because it was a must-win situation,” said the South Africa manager.

“We had four defenders, one holding midfielder and the other five players were committed to attacking.

“The players believed in themselves – the nerves that affected us so much against Cape Verde were gone.

“It was not easy out there on the pitch with the weather so hot.”

Angola manager Gusavo Ferrin conceded his side underperformed in Durban and bemoaned their lack of service to Palancas Negras captain Manucho.

“South Africa played well today, we didn’t play as well as I expected,” said the Uruguayan.

“This is the same team that played against Morocco, last Saturday they played well, but today, they couldn’t give service to Manucho.”

But the 29-year-old former Manchester United striker is still hopeful his side can progress to the quarter-finals.

“We still believe it is possible for us to qualify, but we will wait for the Cape Verde game against Morocco and then do calculation afterwards,” he said.