Coach Molefi Ntseki names Kaizer Chiefs duo in Bafana Bafana's CHAN squad
African Nations Championship
Tebogo Potsane of Kaizer Chiefs has been called up to the Bafana Bafana squad that will face Malawi in a CHAN tie. Photo: BackpagePix
Image: BackpagePix
Coach Molefi Ntseki has named Kaizer Chiefs duo Tebogo Potsane and Samkelo Zwane in the Bafana Bafana squad for the final round of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers, starting this weekend.
Despite Chiefs’ recent struggles on the pitch — which have resulted in infrequent selections of their players for national duty — Potsane and Zwane’s inclusion marks a notable shift in the selectors' approach. Their performances have not gone unnoticed, with their hard work and influence on the field earning them recognition amidst a competitive talent pool.
The Chiefs duo will join forces with players from South Africa’s other football heavyweights, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns. Yanga Madiba (Pirates) and the Sundowns trio of Malibongwe Khoza, Terrence Mashego, and Neo Maema complete a squad boasting skill and experience.
The squad will compete in the final round of the CHAN qualifiers starting this weekend, with a first-leg match against COSAFA neighbours Malawi on Saturday in Lilongwe. The second leg will take place at Loftus Stadium in Tshwane a week later.
The players will assemble in Johannesburg on Monday morning and begin training before departing for Malawi on Thursday. With the first leg away, the team will aim to build a crucial advantage before returning to South African soil for the return fixture.
Samkelo Zwane. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
Safa technical committee chairman Jack Maluleke confirmed that Ntseki would continue as coach to ensure continuity and stability within the team. His appointment is based on the commendable progress and performances displayed in earlier rounds.
"The appointed coach, Ntseki, will continue with the team as he started with them. We felt they did a wonderful job. We can also confirm that he will continue with CHAN until the end," said Maluleke.
Ntseki was brought into the fold in February and successfully negotiated a way past Egypt in the previous round. South Africa beat the Egyptians 4-2 on aggregate after drawing the first leg 1-1 in Bloemfontein, and then impressively winning 3-1 at the Suez Canal Stadium in Ismailia in the return match.
The winner between South Africa and Malawi will qualify for the CHAN tournament, which will be hosted jointly in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda in August.