Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has explained his decision to include Orlando Pirates left-back Paseka Mako in his latest squad.
Mako was one of several new faces named in Broos’ provisional squad for the upcoming friendly matches against Eswatini and Ivory Coast. The 29-year-old midfielder has been in fine form for Orlando Pirates this season.
Addressing the nation, Broos said that he had selected Mako on the basis of his quality and performances.
WHY HUGO BROOS HAS INCLUDED PASEKA MAKO IN BAFANA SQUAD
“Mako is already a long time on the list,” he said. “We have a core of 40-45 players [that we’re monitoring]. For every position, there are 4 to 5 players. Mako is one of the players we have been keeping an eye on.
“I’ve always liked him. This season, he’s stronger than before. [Innocent] Maela is out. [through injury]. It becomes better. He’s very offensive and aggressive in duels. That’s what you want to see in a defender. This is important. I think we have to give him a chance.”
Mako’s inclusion in the Bafana squad is likely to be welcomed by many fans. The defender is known for his energy and creativity, and he could play a key role in Broos’ plans for the upcoming matches.
With Maela likely to miss next month’s qualifiers, Mako could be in for a big chance.
The friendly matches against Eswatini and Ivory Coast will give Broos the opportunity to experiment with different players and formations as he prepares for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations finals next January.
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BAFANA FINAL SQUAD LIST
Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams [Mamelodi Sundowns], Veli Mothwa [AmaZulu FC], Ricardo Goss [SuperSport United]
Defenders: Nyiko Mobbie [Sekhukhune United], Grant Kekana [Mamelodi Sundowns], Nkosinathi Sibisi [Orlando Pirates], Aubrey Modiba [Mamelodi Sundowns], Paseka Mako [Orlando Pirates] Mothobi Mvala [Mamelodi Sundowns], Siyanda Xulu [SuperSport United], Khuliso Mudau [Mamelodi Sundowns]
Midfielders: Njabulo Blom [Sr Louis FC], Teboho Mokoena [Mamelodi Sundowns], Sphephelo Sithole [C.D Tondela], Sibongiseni Mthethwa [Kaizer Chiefs]
Forwards: Mihlali Mayambela [Aris Limassol], Percy Tau [Al Ahly], Zakhele Lepasa [Orlando Pirates], Lyle Foster [Burnley], Lebo Mothiba [Strasbourg FC], Monnapule Saleng [Orlando Pirates], Bongokuhle Hlongwane [Minnesota], Themba Zwane [Mamelodi Sundowns].