Pitso Opens Up On His Comparison Between Ndlovu And Thapelo Maseko

Pitso Mosimane, head coach of the Bafana Bafana, has discussed the traits he looks for in wide attacking players and talked about how Mamelodi Sundowns striker Siyanda Ndlovu is similar to Thapelo Maseko.

After a string of stellar performances since joining Sundowns this season, the 22-year-old has earned an invitation to his first senior national team. His achievements helped him secure a spot in the final Bafana Bafana selection for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualification matches against Kenya, even though he was initially left out of the preliminary team.

Mosimane said that Ndlovu has been catching his eye due to his recent performances, especially because he has been named Man of the Match twice in the past four games. With goals and assists, the attacker has shown that he can also score goals.

The youth player has what the national team coach is looking for in a winger: a straightforward approach. He said that his game is similar to Maseko’s, pointing out that both players can challenge defenders and set up goals.

According to Mosimane, his preferred wide players are those who, when given the ball, act decisively and swiftly. His wingers are supposed to attack opponents, cut inside, exploit holes behind defenders, and send dangerous passes into the box, not spin the ball aimlessly.

Additionally, he emphasised that wingers should actively help the team score goals. Assisting is crucial, but offensive players need also show they can score goals, in his view.

Even though Mosimane is enthusiastic about Ndlovu’s potential, he has to see more international play before he can be considered a star. A player’s success on the club level is no guarantee of future greatness for his country’s national squad.

Due to Maseko’s injury, there is a greater need for attacking options; hence, Ndlovu’s selection provides a chance to evaluate another talented player.

Additionally, the coach elaborated on how evaluating new players is made more challenging by the restricted opportunities for international friendlies. So, the technical staff can assess the skills of currently-active footballers during training by inviting them to camp.

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