Bafana Bafana coach Gordon Igesund announced his squad for the forthcoming friendlies against Nigeria and Burkina Faso in Durban on Tuesday.
Igesund says he rewarded form in Bafana squad selection. Photo: Sapa
The national coach sprung a few surprises and justified his comments last week by rewarding players who shone in the recent Cosafa Cup, where South Africa ended third.
Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Bongani Zungu and forward Luyolo Nomandela from Free State Stars were the only two uncapped players chosen, while seven players from the Cosafa Cup squad were picked.
“They deserve to be there,” Igesund said at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Tuesday.
“I’ve always said I won’t compromise my principles, I’ll pick players on form and are playing well and that’s what these guys have done.”
South Africa face the Super Eagles, the reigning African champions, in the Nelson Mandela Challenge in Durban on August 14, followed by the Burkinabe in the Nelson Mandela Sport and Culture Day clash at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg on August 17.
The seven Cosafa Cup squad members were Wayne Sandilands, Buhle Mkhwanazi, Bevan Fransman, Thulani Hlatshwayo, Tshepo Gumede , Hlompho Kekana and Lebogang Manyama.
“They’ve showed exceptional passion, hunger and commitment to play for their country in the Cosafa Cup,” the coach said. – Sapa
