体坛英语新闻：South African coach gives applause to soccer players

JOHANNESBURG, Oct. 12 (Xinhua) -- South Africa's national soccer coach Pitso Mosimane praised players Itumeleng Khune and Teko Modise Tuesday for their performances against Sierra Leone over the weekend.

Goalkeeper Khune made some crucial stops, while playmaker Modise, who was a late replacement for the injured Steven Pienaar, also impressed Mosimane in the 0-0 draw in Freetown, according to Sport24 in South Africa.

"I do not like to single out players, but Khune made two brilliant saves that kept us on the game while the much criticized Modise was superb for the full 90 minutes," Mosimane said.

The coach said he always had faith in Modise. "Sierra Leone were dangerous on the left and Modise's experience was brilliant in snuffing out the danger from that area of their midfield."

Mosimane said Modise again showed he is a top quality player.

"I knew he would not let me down. If he can come through this tough 90 minutes in Freetown then the PSL (South African Premier Soccer League) will be a piece of cake for him. I am happy to see his confidence is back," added Mosimane.

Although Modise has twice been South Africa's PSL Footballer of the Year, he has struggled for form since last year's FIFA Confederations Cup in South Africa.