Pitso Mosimane has explained why Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates make up such a large portion of the latest Bafana Bafana squad ahead of the national team’s clash with Guinea.
The composition of the squad has attracted attention, particularly because of the number of players selected from Sundowns. Mosimane acknowledged that the concentration of talent from the reigning domestic heavyweights was notable, but insisted the selections were based on performances rather than an attempt to distribute players evenly among clubs.
Sundowns lead the way in Bafana squad
Sundowns have 13 players in the squad, while Orlando Pirates contribute six, highlighting the influence of the two clubs on the current national-team setup.
Mosimane pointed to Sundowns’ recent success as one reason their players are heavily represented. The club recently lifted a trophy and remain at the top of the Betway Premiership standings.
“You have to respect that,” Mosimane said, referring to Sundowns’ recent trophy success and position at the top of the league.
The coach also highlighted the competition for places in certain positions, including left-back, where Aubrey Modiba and Fawaaz Basadien are among the options.
Basadien’s rise has been particularly notable, with Mosimane pointing to regular club football as an important factor in his development and national-team selection.
Why Mosimane isn’t worried about club representation
The large number of players from a handful of clubs can naturally raise questions about whether Bafana should have a wider spread of representation.
Mosimane, however, indicated that he cannot select players simply to ensure that more clubs are represented.
His priority is to choose players who are performing at the required level and can contribute to the national team.
The concentration of goalkeepers from the same club has also attracted attention, but Mosimane maintained that the quality of the available players ultimately has to determine selection.
Pirates also make a significant contribution
While Sundowns dominate the squad numerically, Orlando Pirates are also strongly represented.
The Buccaneers have six players in the squad, reinforcing the growing influence of South Africa’s leading clubs on the national team.
Mosimane suggested that the heavy representation from Sundowns and Pirates reflects the quality and depth currently available at the two clubs.
Ideally, the coach would like to see that level of competition and depth across more positions and clubs in South African football.
For now, though, Bafana’s focus shifts to Guinea.
With a demanding international fixture ahead, Mosimane will be hoping his players can translate their strong club form into a convincing national-team performance.
Do you think Bafana Bafana should continue selecting players based purely on form, regardless of which clubs they represent?
