Former Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns goalkeeper John Tlale believes Knowledge Musona and Khama Billiat have passed their prime.
The Zimbabwean duo were once a force during their time in the PSL. Musona played for Chiefs in the early 2010s, while Billiat joined Amakhosi in 2018, but reached his peak at Mamelodi Sundowns.
Bafana take on Zimbabwe and Rwanda in their final two World Cup qualifiers, knowing anything less than a win could see them fail to qualify for next year’s showpiece.
Bafana to face Musona and Billiat
“We are still in control because both of these Bafana Bafana games are at ‘home’, and I believe we will win them without putting ourselves under unnecessary pressure,” Tlale told KickOff.
“Despite losing three points in our last game, I still believe the spirit within the team is very high. We will qualify. “Although Relebohile Mofokeng and Iqraam Rayners might not be available, that’s the nature of a national team, not a club. We have enough players to fill their roles. There are no stars in the national team – all the players are among the best,” he said.
Tlale expected Musona and Billiat to trouble Bafana but added that the duo were not the same players they were in their 20s.
“Yes, the games are going to be tough, but Billiat and Musona may have already had their time. They might not be the same players they once were. They will give us a tough time, but at the end of the day, we will secure the three points,” said the ex-Downs keeper.
Speaking before Friday’s match, Musona said he was aiming to put a good performance against Bafana
“I have played in South Africa before and I left a great impression,” said the ex-Chiefs star.
“I’m looking forward to leaving another good impression. People know me for my performance at Kaizer Chiefs, so I want to leave a similar impression when we face South Africa on Friday,” he concluded.