South Africa national team coach Stuart Baxter says he is confident the current group of players is capable of leaving a mark at the 2019 Afcon.

Bafana Bafana begin their campaign this afternoon against Group D opponents Ivory Coast at the Al Salam Stadium in Cairo.

The team has failed to reach the levels set by the class of 1996 who won the trophy on home soil.

According to KickOff.com, Baxter thinks the current crop of players differs from the previous groups.

“I think there may have been times before when South African national teams could be accused of not achieving what their potential deserved on the field, because of not having the right focus,” said the coach.

“But win, lose or draw, that will not be the case with this group of players. This group have a very small ego, and a very great South African heart – they enjoy playing for their country.

“And I’m sure that they are going to leave everything out there in every game.”

Meanwhile, the clash against the Elephants start at 4:30 pm and will be live on SuperSport TV.