Tico-Tico joins chorus backing Bafana Bafana

Bucuane has joined a growing chorus of ex-players and pundits insisting that South Africa should not be written off during the tournament.

Speaking in Marrakech, where he is attending as a CAF legend, the 52-year-old explained why he has such strong belief in Hugo Broos’ side.

"I think South Africa must believe they are one of the candidates to win the AFCON. I know many people haven't been thinking like that, but what they've been doing in recent times is really impressive. "Maybe they haven't always been consistent with patchy performances but they are competing at a really high level."

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Bucuane added that Broos’ decision to throw young players into the mix has been a masterstroke during his tenure.

"I'm hoping they can go all the way, seeing that I spent most of my career in South Africa. It's a very well coached team, by a coach who believes in young talent. I will be very interested to see just how far South Africa can go, but I'm praying they can go all the way."

He singled out defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi as a key player as Bafana also build for the future in upcoming competitions.