I used to be a striker – Sangweni

Siyabonga Sangweni is congratulated by teammates after scoring the goal against Angola. Picture: Rebecca Blackwell/AP

Bafana Bafana defender Siyabonga Sangweni, whose goal earned the team a place in the quarterfinals of the Africa Cup of Nations, said there was nothing unusual about his scoring ability.

Sangweni revealed that he used to be a striker when he grew up and when he gets a chance he buries them, particularly at training.

The Orlando Pirates defender was also on the score sheet for Bafana when they defeated Angola on Wednesday but it was his well-taken goal against Morocco yesterday which was more crucial as Bafana were on the verge of being eliminated from the tournament.

After scoring the team’s first goal of the tournament against Angola, he said he enjoyed playing in front of his home supporters. And yesterday he dedicated his 87th minute equaliser to all South Africans.

“I want to thank the supporters for coming in large numbers and pushing us all the way. They deserved something out of the game and I was happy we made them smile,” said Sangweni.

About his goal, he said he realised Moroccan goalkeeper Nadir Lamyaghri was off his line and that gave him a chance to curl the ball beyond his reach.

Sangweni praised Pirates coach Roger De Sa for guiding him at training and said it has paid of.

He said De Sa’s training methods have made it easy for him to adapt to any situation.

Sangweni became an instant hero and supporters were chanting his name as they left the stadium, after he rescued Bafana and ensured a place in the last eight.

The modest Sangweni pleaded with the supporters to once again fill the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday in the quarterfinals, saying they have inspired the players.