Stefano Cusin: Africa Failed At The World Cup Because It Forgets Its Roots

Technical Director of South Africa Premier Soccer League side Black Leopards insists the reason behind Africa's failure at the World Cup is that they forget their roots.

According to the Italian, the continent is struggling to define it's football identity hence the reason they copy the European style.

Africa had a poor World Cup in Russia, and for the first time since 1982, none of its representative progressed to the knockout face.

When asked if he would bring an Italian flair to Leopards on their return to the Absa Premiership, the veteran ex-coach told the media ahead of the new season: "No, this is not correct, because we are not in Italy and we don't have Italian players.

"This is the mistake of many African teams in the World Cup: they want to play like Europe and they forget the blood (heritage), and the blood is more important than the style.

"So, we are in Africa, we have to play like African players, but it's normal that I maybe have something to give, in the position, in the tactical side, maybe in formations, but we are in Africa and we have to make sure of the African style and the culture of the country. This is the most important thing."

Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria, Tunisia and Senegal were Africa's representatives at the World Cup.