Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has explained his decision to select Orlando Pirates defender Nkosinathi Sibisi over FCSB defender Siyabonga Ngezana.
Sibisi played the entire 90 minutes as Bafana defeated Zambia 3-1 in an international friendly at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Saturday.
The Pirates captain has not seen a lot of gametime this season, but Broos has always named him in his squad. The experienced defender has been part of the Bafana squad for over three years but has been used sparingly.
Pirates captain gets a thumbs up from Broos
“That’s important yeah, any moment there can be an injury or suspension whatever but then you have to be ready and also today that was the game to do and to give those players a chance,” Broos told SABC after the game.
“Like in the back, ok Sibisi, ok I know Sibisi four years, you can always count on him.”
Ngezana has also been part of Broos squad; however, this time around, he was overlooked for the Pirates captain. The ex-Chiefs defender is likely to be one of the backup defenders for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), given what the Bafana coach said after the friendly win over Zambia.
“And there’s still other players who are behind like Ngezana for example, but I didn’t call-up now because I wanted to see those guys,” Broos added.
Another Pirates star who impressed Broos is Sipho Mbule. The midfield star has resurrected his career since joining the Buccaneers and is now a regular for the Bafana team.
Against Chipolopolo, the talented playmaker provided two assists to help his side earn another win at home.