South Africa’s national team coach, Stuart Baxter observed heading into his team’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Nigeria that the Super Eagles rely heavily on money to boost their morale and motivate them for victory.
Although the British soccer tactician admitted money plays a role in football matters, Baxter insists it does not play a key part in motivating his players for high-profile matches, as he believes the spirit of nationalism drives them on.
Footballlive.ng gathered further that, in contrast with what he observed as massive financial boost for Nigeria’s players, Baxter said he always banks on personal zeal to drive his players forward.
Baxter admitted that Nigeria’s players are boosted massively by huge corporate backing and government funding in their country, but stressed that the situation is different in South Africa.
He acknowledged that the South African economy is currently going through hard times and noted that many organizations have embarked on cost-cutting measures to keep running, hence lack of massive corporate backing for Bafana.
Baxter added: ”I think the whole of South Africa is going through tough times – there are big companies cutting back and we also need to cut back.
”We can’t pay our players that sort of money, but I don’t think that’s a bad thing; I think that is us reflecting on what’s happening in South Africa – buckle your belt, put your flak jacket on and go to war, that’s it.
”I don’t think we’ll be better warriors if we get paid an extra 25 grand. Maybe Nigeria are – I don’t know, but I can only speak for the South Africans. Money is not an issue with us.”
