By SABELO SKITI

BAFANA Bafana yesterday came in for some praise from the press and soccer personalities following their exploits in the Confederation’s Cup.

As the continental champions, Brazil took to the podium for their third Confederation’s Cup at Ellis Park on Sunday night; many were still amazed at what nearly happened at Rustenburg’s Royal Bafokeng Stadium earlier.

Bafana had defied all odds and nearly beat Spain in the third place play-off .

Safa NEC member Eddie du Plooy was ecstatic with Bafana and said the team had set a standard they had to live up to.

“If there was one word to describe their performance, it would be ‘exciting’.

“These players played way above their natural ability and they have set a standard for their fans which they will have to maintain,” said Du Plooy, adding that holding a month- long camp before the start of the tournament was crucial to their success.

Though he was impressed with the overall performance, former Bush Bucks striker Mzawuthethi Nogwaza said Bafana still lacked firepower upfront. “Playing one striker blunted our attacking potential, because when you play defensive you attack less and put yourself under pressure.”

Looking towards 2010, Nogwaza said it was important that South Africa play quality opposition, before adding that coach Joel Santana needs to bring Benni McCarthy back in the team.

“Also looking at our game in front of goal, it’s clear we need Benni back. He’s the best we have, perhaps the coach can talk to him”

Soccer website kickoff.com said: “South Africa came within two minutes of arguably their greatest ever result,” while Carlos Amato, soccer writer for The Sunday Times looked past the performance, saying Bafana were well on their way to being a soccer powerhouse.

“After an emotional, draining fortnight Bafana lacked the gas to retaliate (after Spain scored the third goal). But they’ll be back soon.

“And if they build on this stirring campaign, they can dream of a quarter-final place – and perhaps more – at next year’s World Cup.”

Franz Beckenbauer, Germany’s legendary footballer and 2006 World Cup organising committee chair, was quoted by a local weekly Soccer Laduma as saying: “The South Africans came very close to beating Brazil and Spain, probably the best teams in the world.

“Tactically they played perfectly and if they manage to find a prolific striker they can win the World Cup.”