Bafana Bafana showed a lot more attacking intent following the inclusion of players such as Orlando Pirates' Oswin Appollis.
Hugo Broos clearly heard the mounting domestic criticism that followed Bafana Bafana’s opening-day defeat to Mexico.
The widespread concerns were not only directed at the 2-0 scoreline itself, but also at the overly cautious structural shape and distinct lack of attacking urgency shown by South Africa on their return to the FIFA World Cup stage. Against the Czech Republic on Thursday, the veteran Belgian tactician responded decisively.
Broos abandoned the conservative back-three experiment deployed against the North Americans, reverting to a far more aggressive 4-3-3 system designed to inject greater attacking presence into the side. Oswin Appollis, Thalente Mbatha and Thapelo Maseko were all drafted into the starting line-up in what felt like a clear, unapologetic statement of intent.
The tactical adjustments immediately altered the rhythm of the side. Even though Bafana Bafana conceded inside the opening five minutes when Michal Sadílek struck for the Czechs, the overall structure looked far more balanced and cohesive than it had in the previous fixture. Instead of dropping deep and struggling to progress possession, South Africa controlled large swathes of the ball.
