Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane has indicated that it was crucial for Themba "Mshishi" Zwane's legacy that his national team career didn't end abruptly after being sent off during the World Cup opener against Mexico. Mosimane gave Zwane his first national team minutes since the red card incident in Bafana's 5-0 Afcon qualifier win over Eritrea. Zwane was introduced for Sphephelo Sithole in the 79th minute, marking his return to the team.
Zwane's red card in the 2-0 defeat to Mexico ended his World Cup participation, causing him to miss Bafana's subsequent three matches. Mosimane emphasized the importance of balancing the team's average age with experience. He expressed happiness that Zwane, one of the most experienced players, got a chance to play, stating that it would be unfair for him not to play after the World Cup red card. This move aims to boost Zwane's confidence and show respect for his contributions.
Mosimane suggested that Zwane would get more minutes against Egypt in a friendly at Cairo International Stadium on Sunday. The team is currently thin in midfield due to injuries to Bathusi Aubaas, who limped off against Eritrea, and Teboho Mokoena, who was injured in the opening game of these qualifiers against Guinea. With Sithole and Brooklyn Poggenpoel as the only two fit central midfielders, Mosimane had to bring in Zwane to play in the midfield.
Bafana Bafana is currently top of Group D in the qualifiers with six points after two games. The team secured a 2-1 win over Guinea at Orlando Amstel Arena last Saturday. Mosimane's strategy to include experienced players like Zwane is seen as a way to strengthen the team ahead of the upcoming friendly against Egypt.
The inclusion of Zwane in the game against Eritrea was a significant move by Mosimane, as it not only provided the player with game time but also helped to address the team's midfield issues. With Aubaas and Mokoena sidelined, Zwane's experience will be valuable in the upcoming friendly against Egypt.
Mosimane's comments suggest that he values Zwane's experience and contributions to the team. By giving him game time, Mosimane aims to show respect for Zwane's legacy and help him regain confidence. The friendly against Egypt will provide an opportunity for Zwane to play more minutes and get back to full fitness.
Bafana Bafana will face Egypt in a friendly at Cairo International Stadium on Sunday at 8pm SA time. The team will look to build on their strong performance in the qualifiers, with Zwane expected to play a key role in the midfield. The friendly will be an important test for Mosimane's team ahead of the upcoming qualifiers.
Key points
- Mosimane gave Zwane game time to show respect and boost his confidence after the World Cup red card incident.
- Bafana Bafana is currently top of Group D in the qualifiers with six points after two games.
- The team will face Egypt in a friendly on Sunday, with Zwane expected to play more minutes in the midfield.
