Bafana Bafana coach Stuart Baxter says his side’s 2-0 victory over Nigeria at the Akwa Ibom Stadium ranks among the best moments of his coaching career.
Coming into Saturday’s game, South Africa had not beaten Nigeria in an official game and there was talk that Baxter has had not enough time to prepare for this crucial opening Africa Cup of Nations qualifier for Cameroon 2019.
Baxter cautioned his players to keep their feet firmly on the ground and he insists Bafana will build from this success.
‘I have received countless messages of congratulations, mostly from back home in South Africa. They are still trickling in and it goes to show what this win means for the country,’ Baxter said.
‘It is the way the victory was achieved which has been so emotional. The long trip to West Africa, the short preparation period and then go into the match and completely outplay the home favourites is something special.’
The Bafana Bafana mentor believes his side were cautious in the opening minutes, but once they realised the Super Eagles were there for the taking, completely took control of the game.
‘We were comfortable on the ball, hit the post twice; I am absolutely delighted. This is what South Africa should do on regular basis,’ he added.
Baxter said he would find it difficult to single out any individual for this performance, saying it was an all-round performance by the 11 players and the substitutes.
‘What really surprised me was the quality of performance, and of course the fantastic result. I am delighted with this win, it is a satisfactory result.
‘The good thing with such wins is they give hope for the future and we should build something special from here on. This can be a catalyst for great things to come,’ Baxter concluded.