Masinga was part of the triumphant 1996 AFCON winning side which captured the trophy in their first-ever continental competition, also held on home soil.

"My only prayer is for Bafana to reach the second round. Honestly speaking it will be a disgrace if we were to be knocked out in the first round," said the ex-Leeds United forward.

"There is lot of pressure, as you know that when we hosted in 1996, we won the tournament and that on its own creates anxiety on the players.

"My advice to them would be to relax, but not too much as they must remember that they are representing the nation and everyone is expecting good results from them."

Masinga is also pleading with Bafana fans to support the national team despite them having lost 1-0 to Norway on Tuesday in a friendly match at the Cape Town Stadium.

"Sometimes it is easy to speak when you are not in that field of play, and it is only the players who feel the heat inside. I would really like to urge the South African supporters to support the team 100% as the players need it," he added.

Masinga also says he is looking to Kaizer Chiefs hitman Bernard Parker to shine at the African showpiece.

"I think if there is one player that I am confident enough on to do well is Parker. The guy is in great form and he has shown that even at his club," he said.

"If he can get good supply, I am sure he will do wonders with the ball.

"Communication will be the key for this team to succeed. The midfielders need to trust our strikers enough for them to pass the ball through."