Speaking during a World Cup roundtable discussion on 702, former Banyana Banyana captain Simphiwe Dludlu said South Africa looked far more recognisable in their 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic than in their opening defeat to Mexico.
Dludlu described the difference in approach between the two matches as a "humongous change", suggesting head coach Hugo Broos made important adjustments after the opening encounter.
"What I love about Hugo Broos is that a good coach can change his mind and relook at the plan that works," she said.
According to Dludlu, Broos may have adopted a more cautious strategy in the first match because many of his players were experiencing the World Cup for the first time and were facing one of the tournament hosts.
However, she believes that approach moved South Africa away from the identity that has traditionally defined the national team.
"The plan didn't work out well because it didn't speak to who we are as South Africa and how we play," she explained.
Against the Czech Republic, Dludlu said Bafana Bafana returned to their natural style - showing more confidence in possession, greater attacking intent and a willingness to play higher up the field.
"We played our style. We built up when we needed to, and we hit the long ball when we saw spaces behind," she said.
Dludlu added that the difference was also reflected in the numbers.
"if you look at the stats, it's the total opposite of what we did against Mexico. There was a big change where the coach said, 'Okay, let's go back to who we are'," she concludes.
The result offered encouragement for South Africa as they continue their World Cup campaign with renewed belief and a clearer identity on the pitch.
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