Furman upbeat ahead of Mali clash

Bafana's fighting spirit and growing confidence could make them dangerous hosts, says midfielder Dean Furman.

They drew 2-2 in a spirited performance against Morocco on Sunday night to reach the quarterfinals, where they will meet Mali, the runners-up in Group B.

Furman said Bafana believed they had a chance of winning.

"We've got a confidence about us," he said.

"We don't want to worry too much about what the other teams have got. We'll respect them and we know every team has got quality in this tournament.

"But we'll have a game plan and work hard throughout the coming week."

But South Africa will have to improve on a shaky defensive performance.

"It's definitely a great characteristic to have in the team - that never-say-die attitude.

"We were down twice behind [against Morocco]. And you talk about the chances we conceded - we've got an outstanding goalkeeper [in Itumeleng Khune] and I think in every good team that's where you start - at the back.

"But that fighting spirit we showed is another side of our game. It shows we can get the ball down and play like we did [in the 2-0 win] against Angola.

"And when we're behind, we can really put teams under pressure. Using the supporters in the stadium, we put Morocco under enough pressure and scored two great goals."

Khune was less complimentary about his own performance. The Kaizer Chiefs man was hesitant early on and missed the cross that led to Morocco's early opener. On the other hand, he made three superb saves from one-on-ones to rescue his side.

"In my own opinion, I'm not happy with my performance because I don't see myself having done well for the country. Obviously we have to go back to the drawing board and see where it all went wrong," said Khune.

"And come back to the quarterfinals with a good mind. We have to approach that game knowing we have to keep a clean sheet."