BAFANA MAKE IT CLAP

Bafana Bafana defeated Malawi 3-1 in an international friendly match played at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Saturday, 22 December 2012. Bafana raced to a 2-0 lead inside 10 minutes through goals from Lehlohonolo Majoro and Siphiwe Tshabalala. May Mahlangu completed a comfortable win for Gordon Igesund's side when he converted from the spot in the 74th minute after second half substitute Tokelo Rantie was brought down inside the box. Malawi had pulled one back early in the second stanza when Siyabonga Sangweni was adjudged to have fouled Robert Ng'ambi inside the penalty area and Josephy Kamwendo made no mistake from the spot kick. This was head coach Igesund's sixth match in charge after Brazil, Mozambique, Poland, Kenya and Zambia - all which formed part of preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations 2013 tournament which South Africa will host from 19 January to 10 February. In the absence of regular captain, Bongani Khumalo, Igesund handed goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune the armband. Striker Bernard Parker was not part of the proceedings after being ruled out of the match against The Flames due to an ankle injury. Igesund made six changes in the second half to have a look at other players. Daine Klate came in for Siphiwe Tshabalala, Tokelo Rantie replaced Majoro, Mahlangu took the place of Lerato Chabangu, Thuso Phala came on for Sifiso Myeni, while Thabo Nthete replaced Bevan Fransman with Thanduyise Khuboni swopping places with Reneilwe Letsholonyane. "I am happy with the win and if we had been more clinical, could have scored more goals. In the first half we played very well but lost our shape early in the second half when we made some change. Some of the players looked tired and that is why I made those changes and gave others a run," said Igesund. "It is clear that there is still a lot of work to be done and we are all aware of that. I however, believe people can now see the bigger picture. Right now I believe I have about 18 players in my mind, and need to fill in the missing places."