Bafana Bafana midfielder Benson Mhlongo said the national team must stop show boating and concentrate for 90 minutes in order for the new-look Bafana to succeed at the 2010 World Cup finals.

The Orlando Pirates star said while Bafana had come a long way in the Confederations Cup, there was plenty of room for improvement.

Said Mhlongo: "We must stop holding onto the ball. In other words, stop showboating and make first time passes count like Brazil and Spain have taught us.

"That is part of the reason why these two sides are top of world soccer. We must learn to pass the ball quickly.

"This Confederation Cup has been an eye opener. We showed we are good enough and have ability but need more maturity.

"The reason sides like Brazil and Spain can come back late in a match is because they can conserve energy by quick, sharp passing. We run ourselves into the ground by keeping hold of the ball too long."

One Bafana player, midfield kingpin Steven Pienaar, showed how it is done with his clever one touch accurate passing that really impressed during the competition.

The Everton star has matured into a world class player, thanks to his experience in Holland, Germany and now the English Premiership.

But others need to follow his example.

Mhlongo, like his teammates, were disappointed at coming so close to beating both Brazil (in the semifinals) and Spain during this tournament only to lose by the odd goal, thanks to defensive mistakes.

Said Mhlongo: "Mistakes happen. But if we stay focused and not lose concentration late in the game, it will help eliminate those mistakes."

Mhlongo has a big point as Bafana were beaten 1-0 by Brazil in the semifinals thanks to an 88th minute free kick netted by Daniel Alves.

Bafana´s weak links have been their inability to defend free kicks and score goals.

"But," added Mhlongo: "We are starting to score goals which is good and now that we have got our confidence back, we must start working on our passing and stay totally focused."

Sapa

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