Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos says that the newly selected players will not face a baptism of fire because he is more interested in seeing how they perform at the highest level in the international friendly matches against Tanzania and Mozambique.
This means that the SA coach will take it easy on the new faces such as Deano van Rooyen, Simphiwe Selepe, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Tshepang Moremi, Ndamulelo Maphangule, Yanele Mbuthuma, Khulumani Ndamini, Thabo Moloisane and Samukelo Kabini because he wants them to give their best and to make an impression.
The South African senior men’s national team coach said while his charges would set out to win the two matches – both to be played at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on Friday and Tuesday – it was important to see how the new players acquit themselves with their surroundings.
“The performance is the most important thing. We want to win the two games, and we will do everything to win them. But more importantly, it is the performance of the players, certainly the new players and again, I will not put pressure on them. They just have to play their game and then we will see, evaluate what we are going to do in the future,” said Broos.
“The opponents are not the strongest ones, but certainly not the weakest of Africa. Both countries were at the AFCON last year, so even Mozambique is in a good space to go to the World Cup next year.
“So, this means there will be a good opponent in the two games, and therefore, again, I think it’s a good opportunity for everyone to prove themselves, to show their qualities.”
Broos’ charges face Tanzania first at Peter Mokaba Stadium on Friday and then turn their attention to Mozambique at the same venue on Tuesday. Both matches kick off at 7:30pm.
