Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has explained the first call-up of Mamelodi Sundowns defender Malibongwe Khoza to the senior national team.
Broos revealed his final 23-man squad on Thursday ahead of Bafana’s crucial FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.
Broos says he identified Khoza as his next preferred option following the suspension of Siyabonga Ngezana and the injury to Ime Okon, both of whom play abroad for FCSB and Hannover 96, respectively.
The coach further spoke about the successful integration of young players, explaining how their introduction has been crucial to maintaining the team’s high level of performance.
“What really pleases me is the fact that the results have been coming even when we make the team younger,” said Broos on SABC1.
“So, we’re going on [every] moment we can do it. And I think now with the suspension of Ngezana and Okon’s injury, why not give him a chance and see how he reacts.
“Yes [he can play different positions] but with a guy young like him, you have to put him in his best position and I think that’s centre-back.”
Bafana will assemble next Monday before flying to Durban for their FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Warriors of Zimbabwe, secheduled for Friday, 10 October at 18:00, at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
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