Bafana Bafana coach Joel Santana might have let South Africa down tactically, but the Bafana players must shoulder the blame for the national team's demise as well, writes iafrica.com's Khaya Ndubane.

It's much easier to blame the coach when the results are not forthcoming but there might be other factors that are contributing to Bafana's demise.

Granted, Bafana coach Joel Santana's tactical ability leaves much to be desired but one cannot ignore the fact that there are such things like player revolt in South Africa. The reason why Bafana are not doing well might have to do with players not wanting to play under Santana more than anything else and by under-performing they automatically put him in the line of fire.

Another disease that has infiltrated South African soccer is money. Bafana players are known for holding Safa to ransom every time they have to play a major tournament.

Just recently they demanded around R34-million in bonuses for playing in the Confederations Cup, but Safa did not bow to these ridiculous demands. But what happened next? Bafana went on to lose six matches in a row.

I am certainly not saying these two factors are the cause of Bafana's below par performance, but rather that Bafana's problems might be running far deeper than Santana.

After all, it was Santana who almost led Bafana to victories again football powerhouses Brazil and Spain in the Confederations Cup so he has not suddenly turned into a poor coach.

Safa have no choice but to fire Santana very soon, however, because based on results, he has failed dismally and as a coach he is judged on results. But like I said, Safa have to assess the players as well to see if they are worthy of donning the Bafana jersey.

For me there are players in the Bafana squad that do not deserve to be there and on top of my list is captain Aaron Mokoena, who was once again was found wanting in the Bafana loss against Norway.

But I again the blame must be put on Santana for selecting average players like Mokoena.

Safa, be warned, get rid of the dead wood in the Bafana squad or Santana might have the last laugh when the man who is selected to replace him also fails!

  • Do you agree with Khaya? Are Bafana players also to blame for SA's demise? Let us know what YOU think!
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