Alexandria-Murad Teyeb: South Africa coach Ted Dumitru was stunned by his side's 2-0 defeat to Guinea in the opening match of their African Cup of Nations Group C match on Sunday. Dumitru said that despite the slow start, his side will improve gradually. "You didn't see the real South Africa today. I can guarantee that there will be a totally different team against Tunisia in the next match," Dumitru told reporters after the match. The 69-year-old manager blamed South Africa's win over hosts Egypt in a pre-tournament friendly for the bigheadedness of his players against Guinea "We made a mistake in beating Egypt last week," he said. "My players heads were out of the game. "We were totally exposed. The team were far too confident, they thought Guinea were not a serious team and were made to pay heavily," said Dumitru.
Guinea coach Patrice Neveu was also surprised by the outcome of the game. "We were not favorites, but we have beaten a prestigious team today," said Neveu. "I congratulate the players for their commitment tonight. They kept their heads and it was a good test for them. Neveu said the secret behind Guinea's victory over South Africa was the spirit and humility in which his players approached the game. "We played in the same style and spirit we did during the qualifiers," he said. "We should keep humble and look at things rationally."
