On 10th March, South African soccer powerhouse Mamelodi Sundowns saw ten of its players named in the preliminary squad for Bafana Bafana’s 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Liberia. This follows the success of previous World Cup winners Germany and Spain, both of which had seven players from Bayern Munich and Barcelona respectively in their respective squads.
Rulani Mokwena, head coach of Mamelodi Sundowns, believes that there is no reason why Bafana Bafana can’t follow in the footsteps of these two teams, and pointed to the success of Germany and Spain in the past. Speaking to the media at a press conference at Chloorkop on Thursday, Mokwena said: “We’ve seen Germany do it and succeed. We’ve seen Spain do it and succeed. I don’t think there should be a problem calling up players from Sundowns, especially if the performance is merited and it’s for the benefit of the nation. Mine is to wish them the best of luck and congratulate them.”
The 10 players included in the squad are Ronwen Williams, Khuliso Mudau, Grant Kekana, Mothobi Mvala Aubrey Modiba, Thapelo Morena, Sphelele Mkhulise, Themba Zwane, Teboho Mokoena and Cassius Mailula.
Bafana Bafana will take on Liberia later this month, and Mokwena has wished them the best of luck in their upcoming fixtures.