Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has sent a chilling message to South Africa’s top stars: performance is the only currency that matters. Ahead of the high-profile friendlies against Panama, the Belgian tactician defended his decision to omit Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine in favor of Sekhukhune United’s Renaldo Leaner.
The “Leaner” Approach
Broos was candid about his selection process, emphasizing that a spot in the national team requires consistent excellence both on and off the pitch.
“Everybody has to be worried when they don’t perform… It’s not a charity, it’s something that is very serious,” Broos told SABC1.
While the coach didn’t explicitly say Chaine was “not performing,” he expressed a strong desire to reassess Renaldo Leaner, who has been a consistent figure in the preliminary squads. For Broos, the upcoming camp is a crucial opportunity to see how Leaner integrates into the team culture and handles the pressure of the international stage.
The Full Bafana Squad vs. Panama
Despite Chaine’s absence, the Orlando Pirates influence remains strong, with six “Bucs” making the final cut:
- Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams (Sundowns), Ricardo Goss (Siwelele FC), Renaldo Leaner (Sekhukhune Utd).
- Defenders: Nkosinathi Sibisi (Pirates), Aubrey Modiba, Khulumani Ndamane, Khuliso Mudau (Sundowns), Ime Okon (Hannover 96), Samukelo Kabini (Molde FK), Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Chicago Fire), Thabang Matuludi (Polokwane City).
- Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Jayden Adams (Sundowns), Thalente Mbatha (Pirates), Sphephelo Sithole (C.D. Tondela).
- Forwards: Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, Evidence Makgopa, Relebohile Mofokeng (all Pirates), Lyle Foster (Burnley), Bongokuhle Hlongwane (Minnesota Utd), Themba Zwane (Sundowns), Thapelo Maseko (AEL Limassol).
Pirates’ Title Pursuit: The Road Ahead
While international duty beckons, the Sea Robbers are locked in a fierce battle for the PSL title, sitting just two points behind Mamelodi Sundowns. Their upcoming schedule is grueling, culminating in the highly anticipated Soweto Derby:
- 22 March: vs. TS Galaxy (Mbombela Stadium)
- 7 April: vs. Golden Arrows (Orlando Stadium)
- 10 April: vs. Richards Bay (Richards Bay Stadium)
- 25 April: Soweto Derby vs. Kaizer Chiefs (FNB Stadium)
