South Africa

South Africa Coach Carlos Alberto Parreira Defends Joel Santana

New Bafana Bafana head coach Carlos Alberto Parreira has defended his compatriot Joel Santana’s record with the national team.

Nov 6, 2009 1:00:21 PM

Carlos Alberto Parreira, the brazilian coach (AFP)

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Carlos Alberto Parreira, the brazilian coach (AFP)

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Santana was recommended by Parreira, but the little known Brazilian failed dismally in his first job as a national team head coach. Parreira, who’s been to five World Cups, believes South Africans and the press could have been a little patient with Santana.

“Eight defeats in nine games is a poor record for any coach, but Bafana were losing to big countries,” he told KickOff.com at a press conference in Newtown, Johannesburg.

“We all want to win every game, including friendly games. But the national team lost to Brazil, Spain, Serbia, Norway and some other good countries,” Parreira continued.

“What we need from now on as we prepare for the World Cup is patience from everyone. We want to do well at the World Cup... this is a priceless event. So we need everyone to be positive. The press must be positive when you inform the people about the national team. We will be aiming to reach the next round next year and from then on, the sky is the limit,” the Brazilian said.