South African national team coach Pitso Mosimane has shed light on his decision to include Thabang Matuludi in his first Bafana Bafana squad despite the defender not playing any matches this season. Matuludi, who recently joined Mamelodi Sundowns, was part of the Bafana World Cup squad under predecessor Hugo Broos in North America earlier this year. Mosimane stated that he conducted thorough research on Matuludi's fitness, having watched him train and play in friendly games during the preseason.
Mosimane's first assignment as Bafana coach will be two crucial opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying games against Guinea and Eritrea. The team will face Guinea at Orlando Stadium on Saturday and Eritrea in a tricky away clash on September 30. The coach expressed confidence in his team's preparation, stating that they have been monitoring Matuludi's progress and believe he can make an impact.
The inclusion of Matuludi has raised eyebrows, given his lack of playing time this season. However, Mosimane emphasized that the player's past performances and training have earned him a spot in the squad. Matuludi started for Sundowns in their 2-1 win against Al-Ahli Saudi on Saturday and was replaced in the 85th minute. His new club lifted the African-Asian-Pacific Cup and progressed to the semifinals of the 2026 Intercontinental Cup.
In other news, midfielder Lebohang Maboe has been ruled out of the Bafana camp due to a twisted ankle sustained during Kaizer Chiefs' 0-0 draw against Lamontville Golden Arrows on Sunday. Bafana team doctor Dr. Tshepo Molobi confirmed that Maboe will undergo a scan and miss the current camp and this Fifa window. Maboe's absence has led to the inclusion of Orlando Pirates' Tshepang Moremi, who had been initially left out despite turning out for South Africa at the World Cup.
Mosimane also addressed concerns about the right-back position, which has been a challenge due to the long-term injury of Khuliso Mudau. The coach emphasized the importance of having depth in each position, citing the example of the Springboks, who can play anyone in a particular position. Mosimane believes that Matuludi will have to fight for his position, with Kamogelo Sebelebele also vying for a spot.
The Bafana squad has been training at the University of Johannesburg's sports fields since Monday, preparing for their crucial Afcon qualifiers. Mosimane expressed his confidence in the team's preparation, stating that they have done their research and are ready for the challenges ahead. The coach also acknowledged that his job is to make tough decisions and that he will be held accountable for his choices.
The team will look to make a strong statement in their Afcon qualifiers, with a tough match against Guinea on Saturday. Mosimane's experience and research will be put to the test as he navigates the challenges of the qualifiers. The coach's decisions will be closely watched, and the team's performance will be crucial in determining their chances of qualifying for the tournament.
Key points
- Pitso Mosimane included Thabang Matuludi in his first Bafana Bafana squad based on thorough research and the player's past performances.
- Lebohang Maboe has been ruled out of the Bafana camp due to a twisted ankle sustained during a Kaizer Chiefs match.
- Mosimane emphasized the importance of having depth in each position, citing the example of the Springboks.
