Pitso Mosimane has returned as the coach of South Africa's national football team, Bafana Bafana, with a bold plan to revolutionize the country's football by giving young players a chance to play at the top level. Mosimane stated that he would not hesitate to field an 18-year-old player if they deserved it, provided they were playing regularly in the Premier Soccer League (PSL). This approach is part of his broader vision to transform South African football.
Mosimane's first game back as Bafana Bafana coach will be an Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifier against Guinea at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday. The team will also face Eritrea at Cairo's Al-Salam Stadium in their second pool match on Wednesday, and play a friendly against Egypt in Cairo on October 4. These matches are crucial for Bafana's chances of qualifying for the Afcon, which will be hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania next year.
Mosimane's experience with youth football, particularly through his school's football project, has informed his approach to selecting players for Bafana Bafana. He emphasized that talent needs to be identified and developed properly, and that young players should be given opportunities to play at higher levels. Mosimane cited the example of Daine Klate, who he selected for SuperSport United at just 17 years old and went on to become one of the country's most decorated players.
However, Mosimane also stressed that young players must be playing regularly in the PSL to be considered for the national team. He believes that this is essential to justify their inclusion in the team and to ensure that they are ready for the challenges of international football. Mosimane's approach is to identify talented young players who are already performing well in the PSL and give them a chance to play for Bafana Bafana.
Mosimane's vision for South African football extends beyond the national team, as he aims to transform youth football in the country. He believes that by giving young players opportunities to play at higher levels, South African football can produce more talented players and become more competitive on the international stage. Mosimane's experience and success with young players at club level have given him confidence in his approach.
Bafana Bafana are in Group D of the Afcon qualifiers, alongside Guinea, Eritrea, and Kenya, who have already qualified as one of the hosts. To qualify for the Afcon, Bafana need to top their group, which will require them to perform well in their upcoming matches. Mosimane's approach to selecting young players could be a key factor in the team's success, as it could bring fresh energy and talent to the team.
Mosimane's commitment to giving young players a chance has been evident in his previous coaching stints, where he has consistently selected talented young players for his teams. He believes that this approach can help to develop a strong and competitive national team, and that it is essential for the long-term success of South African football. With his experience and vision, Mosimane is well-positioned to make a positive impact on South African football.
Key points
- Mosimane aims to field an 18-year-old player in Bafana Bafana if they are playing regularly in the PSL and deserve a chance.
- Bafana Bafana face Guinea, Eritrea, and Kenya in their Afcon qualifying group.
- Mosimane's approach to youth football is informed by his experience with his school's football project.
