Coach Helman Mkhalele has selected a youthful Bafana Bafana squad for their Chan qualifier against Comoros at the Dobsonville Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
The South African national team has reported for camp in Johannesburg as they begin preparations for their opening match of the upcoming Chan tournament.
The 52-year-old coach has kept the bulk of the squad that secured a narrow victory over the Islanders in the first leg last week, with Khulekani Shezi scoring the only goal of the match.
“I have brought in five new players to add to that squad which played away because some of our players who featured in the first leg match were ruled out due to injuries,” Mkhalele told Safa.
“We have roped in the likes of Promise Mkhuma, George Matlou, Sammy Seabi, Sibusiso Milazi and Keenan Phillips as suitable replacements as we continue with our preparations for the upcoming second-leg fixture against Comoros.
“This second tie is not going to be easy because we expect Comoros to come at us with the intention of overturning the first-leg result we produced against them.
“We are not going to allow them room as this is one match we want to dominate from the first whistle until the last.”
Meanwhile, Mkhalele also took the time to congratulate Banyana Banyana for winning their first-ever Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title.
“I would like to congratulate Banyana Banyana for a job well done in winning the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations tournament,” Mkhalele said.
“The mood is very high in the country and there is renewed hope all around. They have made the country proud, and we just want to appreciate them for their achievements. We are truly inspired.”
Goalkeepers:
Lincoln Vyever, Olwethu Mzimela
Defenders:
Nelson Ralenkoane, Lesego Sebtlela, Kamogelo Mahlangu, Keenan Phillips, Nathi Bhongo, Siyanda Msani, Khulekani Shezi, Zuko Mdunyelwa
Midfielders:
George Matlou, Sammy Seabi, Sifiso Mbidana, Sydney Malihva, Kamogelo Sithole, Kagiso Shezi, Sibusiso Milazi, Thuso Mogale, Promise Mkhuma
Strikers:
Ashley Cupido, Keletso Sifama, Boitumelo Radiopane.