sportskeeda
Neo Rapoo, defender for Amajita, remains hopeful that his team will bounce back from their opening match loss to France as they gear up to face New Caledonia in their second group stage match at the FIFA World Cup U20.
The upcoming match is scheduled to kick off on Friday at 01:00 am at Estadio El Teniente. Rapoo attributes the team’s lackluster performance against France to pre-match nerves, noting that it was their first appearance on the global stage.
“This match is very important; while we might have started slowly, I have faith that the players will recover, just as we did in AFCON,” Rapoo expressed.
“I firmly believe we can bounce back, as this was our first international experience, and some players were a bit anxious. I have confidence that we can secure maximum points this time.”
Despite the setback, Rapoo highlighted several positive elements from the match against France.
“There were definitely some positive takeaways from that game, even with the loss,” he noted.
“I am confident the players will be driven, ensuring we represent our nation with pride. Everyone is dedicated to giving their best, and we are eagerly awaiting this match.”
Amajita will take on New Caledonia, who faced a heavy 9-1 loss against the United States in their first match.
Rapoo emphasized that his team will focus on their own performance rather than on their opponents.
“This match is crucial for both us and New Caledonia, as both teams have lost their initial games,” he clarified.
“However, as South Africans, our primary concern is our own game. Our goal is to secure maximum points and move on to the next round.”
Rapoo believes that a strong start and scoring will boost his team’s morale.
“I think our confidence will build in this match; we just need to get off to a good start and score,” he concluded.
“It’s not that we didn’t play well against France; we just couldn’t find the net. I’m hopeful we can approach this match with a mindset focused on scoring and solid defense to earn three points.”
The African champions are determined to claim their first victory against New Caledonia, who are making their debut in this tournament. A win would re-energize Amajita’s chances of advancing to the next stage of the competition.
