Former Bafana Bafana and Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Siphiwe Tshabalala believes there will be many upsets in this edition of the Africa Cup of Nations.

Tshabalala represented Bafana at three AFCON competitions in 2006, 2008 and in 2013 when he helped the team reach the quarter-finals as the host nation.

Tshabalala has heaped praise on CAF and how warm the reception was for the Ivorians as they host the 34th edition of the AFCON.

“Before coming to Korhogo, I attended the Opening Ceremony which was absolutely world-class in all aspects. The organisation, the venue, the fans and of course the football,” Tshabalala told CAFOnline.

“Coming to the football, the quality of football has been impressive so far. I also have to commend the great officiating of matches and great organisation by CAF. This is by far the best AFCON that the world is witnessing.”

The former Bafana Bafana star also reflected on his fondest memory of representing South Africa at the continental tournament.

“My fondest memory of AFCON is wearing my national team jersey of South Africa representing my country in the biggest tournament in the continent and competing against the best in the continent on three occasions,” he added.

“This is the greatest tournament on the continent and every African footballer’s dream.”

Tshabalala concluded by stating that this competition has evolved and has inherited a highly competitive nature.

“It is a very difficult competition for all teams. The standard is world-class. There have been big upsets by the so-called small teams. They rose to the occasion. This will definitely be a tournament of upsets,” Tshabalala concluded.

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