Subject: [NT] Friendly vs Slovenija

Our opponents this week are ranked 38th (1607pts) to our 51st (1283pts). Their squad of 68 players has an average value of R4.6m, while our squad of 70 players averages R3.3m. However, based on recent matches, we may have a slight edge on them with the strength of our first team.

We last met on 14 July 2007 where we won 3-1. Before that, we beat them 3-2 on 11 Nov 2006. Hopefully we can win again, which could give us a tidy boost to our ranking.

This weeks lineup

Keeper: Lathan (Wuest)
Defence: Baloyi, Mabotsa, Rodrigues, Ngaduana (Yohane, Goliath)
Midfield: Chacho, Makhanya, Mabizela, Madigage (Lekhuleng)
Attack: Mugeyi, Permall (Behr)

The back line is looking solid. Having Goliath and Yohane in reserve says a lot. I've opted to use the more rounded players, instead of those two who would be more vital against really tough opposition.

The midfield isn't much changed. Makhanya's form has earned him a starting place. Depth is still a concern.

Up front, I've chosen to give the improved Mugeyi his first full cap. He scored on his debut as a sub. Behr and Permall are very similar players, so I've decided to put Behr on the bench and have a pairing that are a little different.

The strike force is getting very competitive now. Some good players are off form, but still in consideration. Younger players like Lakay and Portgieter are pushing hard for places, and we've got some talent juniors like Mapela and Mahula progressing quickly. The future looks bright in this department.

Great result yesterday, winning 3-1 after being 3-0 up. The strategy worked well, Mugeyi justifying his selection with 2 goals.

A few areas of concern:
- Makhanya's passing was woeful
- I messed up the attacking throw-ins, having set those areas for corners
- Their one striker kept running through our defenders like they weren't there. It's a good thing his shooting was off target.

The win pushed us up to 1328 pts, a gain of 45, and our ranking edged up to 49. Slovenija dropped down from 38th to 44th. Once the four new countries start playing and losing matches, we'll move beyond them as well, so we're effectively 45th now. There's a long way to go.

Much will depend on our draw now in the Mini World Cup and how we fare, but I'm naturally hoping for a good performance like last time around.
(edited)

Makhanya is now also old.

He has excellent passing so I dont think I can do much to improve it without affecting my training strategy.

That's true. It just shows what level is good enough and what isn't at national level. With his playmaking, passing and form, I was hoping for a better performance.

Chacho did very well in the defensive midfield position, not in any defensive role but as a playmaker setting up the attacking moves. I've always played him further forward before.

A similar thing is happening up front. I'm finding what appears to be a huge difference between outstanding and incredible striking. It's sort of like a 'sweet spot' in the levels. I could be imagining things, but that's the impression I'm getting.

I have also never played Chacho in a more defensive role.

He is often my offensive midfielder.