The run-up to the Bafana Bafana Madagascar clash has been interesting. Coach Joel Santana called up an all-local squad and then three of the stars, Teko Modise, Frank Cale and Moeneeb Josephs had to be replaced because of injuries.
After the South African National Soccer Team’s “not-so-great” performance since the Confederations Cup, morale in the camp and among supporters has been slipping. We desperately need a win, even if it is over 131 ranked Madagascar.
Local Stars Have an Opportunity to Impress
For this friendly against Madagascar, head coach Joel Santana has selected a squad purely made up of local stars, with Siyanda Xulu, Rooi Mahamutsa, Ruben Cloete and Thanduyise Khuboni all handed a chance to shine for the first time.
The under-fire Brazilian coach surprised many people by including Gert Schalkwyk and Reneilwe Letsholonyane, who have not been playing regularly at their respective clubs.
But Injuries have taken out three of the stars in the form of Teko Modise, Frank Cale and Orlando Pirates Goalkeeper, Moeneeb Josephs.
Moeneeb Josephs Replaced by Darren Keet
Moeneeb Josephs has been replaced by 20-year-old Bidvest Wits stopper Darren Keet for Bafana’s friendly with Madagascar after injuring his right hand.
Keet will compete with SuperSport United’s Emille Barron for a start in the friendly against Madagascar to be played in Kimberley.
The youngster was also recently called-up to the national side for the FIFA Under-20 World Cup in Egypt, and will join up with Serame Letsoaka’s Amajita side after completing international duty with Bafana.
The withdrawal is a shame for Josephs, who has been in excellent form so far this season, helping Pirates to six clean-sheets in their opening six League matches, and who was unlucky to be overlooked for the Germany and Ireland matches.
Benson Mhlongo – Captain of Bafana Bafana
Santana is expected to name veteran Benson Mhlongo as captain for the match, where the Bafana squad.
National Football Team of Madagascar
The national football team of Madagascar, also called Barea is under the Fédération Malagasy de Football. It has participated in the Indian Ocean Games, COSAFA Cup, pre-World cup matches and African Nations Cup.
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