Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Bruce has reacted to his team's first medal in 24 years at the African Cup of Nations.
South Africa defeated the Democratic Republic of the Congo in a penalty shootout to win the bronze medal.
Hugo Bruce is proud of Bafana Bafana's spirit
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The Belgian strategist was full of praise for his players after they won the national team's first bronze medal since the 2000 Games.
Bruce revealed why he is proud of the team and believes the team's mentality is perfect.
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“I said after the Nigeria game that I was proud of this team, and I think people can understand why I said I was proud of this team today. We weren't fresh, but when you see the mentality of that group, you're impressed,'' the coach said happily on SABC Sports.
“The boys worked really hard. They showed great mentality.
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“They tried to do what I asked them to do, but I understand it was difficult. This shows that if there is a problem, you can rely on the guys on the bench.”
team effort
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The Bulls felt that the team came together through this tournament.
“I was happy with the players on the pitch, but I was even happier with the players off the pitch.
“They encouraged them and had their backs.
“From this we can see that 23 players want one thing and that is to win,” the coach concluded.
According to official CAF records, Bafana are also the first country to play in three consecutive penalty shootouts in the African Cup of Nations.
The Blues have been backed by SAFA's top brass to extend their contract.
However, despite a decent effort at the African Cup of Nations, many still have doubts as to whether the manager can take this team to new heights.