Pitso Drops Big Siyanda Ndlovu Comparison: Bafana Coach Sees Another Thapelo Maseko

Pitso Mosimane has explained why Mamelodi Sundowns attacker Siyanda Ndlovu has earned a place in his Bafana Bafana squad, following the youngster’s impressive performances that have made him one of the exciting emerging talents in South African football.

The 23-year-old was initially left out of Mosimane’s preliminary squad but managed to force his way into the final 27-man selection for South Africa’s upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Kenya.

Ndlovu’s recent performances for Sundowns have caught the attention of the national team coach, with the attacker contributing two goals, three assists and two pre-assists. He has also collected consecutive Man of the Match awards in the Carling Knockout competition.

Explaining his decision, Mosimane compared Ndlovu’s playing style to that of fellow South African winger Thapelo Maseko.

“Deliberate player, a little bit of a duplicate to Thapelo Maseko,” Mosimane said.

The coach revealed that he particularly appreciates wingers who are brave enough to take on defenders, attack spaces and create opportunities rather than slowing down attacking moves.

“I like those wingers, you know. Go inside one v one, go behind and go past, bring the ball in the box, let’s tap it in,” he added.

However, Mosimane cautioned that earning a national team call-up does not guarantee Ndlovu a starting position. The youngster must demonstrate that he can reproduce his impressive club performances at international level, where the demands and intensity are different.

With Maseko currently injured, Ndlovu has an opportunity to strengthen Bafana’s attacking options.

South Africa will face Kenya on 13 November before travelling to Nairobi for the return fixture on 17 November. Bafana will enter the encounters after winning their opening two AFCON qualifying matches against Guinea and Eritrea.

The fixtures will also bring Mosimane up against former Bafana striker Benni McCarthy, who is currently coaching Kenya.

For Ndlovu, this represents an important opportunity to establish himself in the national team and prove that his outstanding performances at Sundowns deserve international recognition.

https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2118607052914213065/photo/2?a=36S9Z5szSSGq4vKuQBM&s=19

All_Is_Well.Media feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com