Bafana Bafana to Jet in Tomorrow

The Citizen (Dar es Salaam)

Majuto Omary

10 May 2011

A 30-member of South Africa’s national soccer team, Bafana Bafana, is expected in the country tomorrow for Saturday’s friendly match against Taifa Stars at the National Stadium.Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) information officer Boniface Wambura confirmed yesterday that the South African contingent would comprise 20 players and 10 officials.He said the South Africans would arrive at Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam at 7.30pm.

Kaizer Chief’s midfielder Siphiwe Tshabalala is among players making up coach Pitso Mosimane’s squad for the eagerly awaited match. Taifa Stars, now camping in the city, will be unfortunate not to have on board some of their key players during the match.

They include Azam FC’s striker Mrisho Ngassa, who has been ruled out of the friendly due to a knee injury.

The hosts will also miss the services of overseas-based players Nizar Khalfan and Danny Mrwanda, who feature for Vancouver White Caps, in Canada and Vietnam’s Long Tang, respectively.

Mrwanda’s team mate Abdi Kassim has also been ruled out of what promises to be a thrilling showdown. The three players have been forced not to return home for Saturday’s friendly because their respective clubs have refused to release them.South Africa’s team will consist of goalkeepers Itumeleng Khune and Wayne Sandilands, defenders Morgan Gould, Siyanda Xulu, Eric Mathoho, Mzivukile Tom, Prince Hlela, Siyabonga Sangweni, Tefu Mashamaite and Siyanda Zwane.

Others are midfielders Hlompho Kekana, Thanduyise Khuboni, Reneilwe Letsholonyane, Thandani Ntshumayelo, Thabo Matlaba, Erwin Isaacs, Siphiwe Tshabalala (captain) and Sifiso Myeni.Also in the list are strikers are Bernard Parker, Vuyisile Wana, Lehlohonolo Majoro and Katlego Mphela.

AllAfrica – All the Time