Bafana Bafana legend Sibusiso "Rhee" Zuma believes a win in a World Cup qualifier away to Ethiopia will put the men's national team in a favourable position to win Group G.
South Africa face Ethiopia in a 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifying double-header, this Saturday on 9 October, before a return leg at FNB Stadium on 12 October.
Bafana currently lead their World Cup qualifying group after two matches and will be aiming for six points to cement their position as group leaders.
"I'm happy that we are currently on four points," Zuma tells snl24.com/kickoff.
"As the coach Hugo Broos mentioned he will be using a young team, so let's look at this as them gaining experience. I hope that they come back with a point and even win the game.
"I think it's up to them, if they see an opportunity of winning the game they have to take it. So you go there protecting a point, if the opportunity is there just take the whole thing.
"I'm happy with where they are at the moment, travelling away this game will send a message you know that they want to win.
"If they can win in Ethiopia it will be amazing for us, but they don't have to risk it. It's better to protect a point, if the opportunity is there take it."
Despite SAFA making it clear that the national team coach Broos is under no obligation to qualify for the World Cup in Qatar next year, Zuma says it is up to the players to build their own legacy.
"We grew up in the townships, we have families we are representing, we have fans that we are representing, once you leave South Africa you are no longer representing yourself but the country.
"Building or whatever case, winning a game is the main thing. As an athlete, you prepare yourself to win a match. This is where you learn to win. I'm sure they are motivated. I'm just hoping we come back with a good result. Our country needs it."
Scroll through the gallery to see South Africa's all-time leading goalscorers in World Cup qualifiers
