Pitso Mosimane, South Africa’s most decorated coach, has sent a message to David Notoane’s U23 side ahead of their crunch Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Congo Brazzaville.
Notoane’s side will take on Congo Brazzaville at Dobsonville Stadium at 15:00 on Thursday, with tickets free for fans, who want to attend.
Many believe that Notoane has selected a strong crop of players, including 20-year-old Kgaogelo Chauke, who came through the academy of Premier League side Southampton and is currently on loan at League One side Exeter City.
On Thursday, SA’s U23 squad were visited by Mosimane, who shared some words of motivation for Notoane’s charges, encouraging the youngsters to manage their football careers for longevity and success.
“If you left everything and chose football, then I want to encourage you to go at it with your whole heart”, said Mosimane, as per SAFA.
“Dream beyond South African borders, teams in North Africa, Middle East and Europe need you and your talent that God entrusted you with. There is more out there and you need to know that there is more and go after it.
“Be very careful with your careers, manage and run your own careers, it’s all in your hands. Beyond your talent, use your efforts and commitment to make it.
“Your future is bright and I will be watching you at the AFCON because I am confident that you are going there. I wish you all the best and I want to see you do well.
“You can’t do it alone and you will need your teammates because the best players in the world are not selfish.”
If South Africa’s U23 side qualify for the U23 AFCON, they keep their hopes of qualifying for the 2024 Olympics alive, as the top three sides from the AFCON will qualify for the tournament in Paris.
