Edmilson Dove – Bafana are the benchmark

The former Kaizer Chiefs player believes the increasing unpredictability of the Africa Cup of Nations is a clear sign of rising standards across the continent, warning that even Africa’s nine World Cup places can no longer be taken for granted.

Dove singled out South Africa, pointing to the visible improvements in structure, consistency and competitiveness.

"Overall, we are growing as African football. There are no longer any guaranteed results, and I'm happy for South Africa, because as I always say, SA is my second home. So it pleases me to see them flourish, and its up to us as the other South African teams to get better."

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Mozambique are still searching for their first ever win at the AFCON after losing 1-0 to title holders Ivory Coast in their Group F opener.

Dove took positives, however.

"We are a team that never really gives up you know. In the moments we were under pressure, we stayed competitive and kept on working and running for one another." 

They face Gabon on Sunday afternoon still confident of causing an upset.

Dove concluded by saying they were not too harsh on themselves following the defeat to the champions in their group opener.