By Michael Madyira
Bafana Bafana Cosafa Cup coach Helman Mkhalele has left out big names from his 23-man squad for the regional tournament.
South Africa will host the competition in Gqeberha from 26 June to 7 July. Bafana will be in Group A with Botswana, Eswatini, and Mozambique.
After initially selecting the likes of wonderkid Relebohile Mofokeng, Thalente Mbatha, Thabiso Monyane, Thabiso Sesane, as well as the goalkeeping duo of Melusi Buthelezi and Sipho Chaine, Mkhalele dropped all the Buccaneers stars.
The Kaizer Chiefs trio of goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma, Samkelo Zwane, and Mduduzi Shabalala was also not picked after appearing in the provisional squad.
Mamelodi Sundowns’ big names like Zuko Mdunyelwa, Lesiba Nku and Siyabonga Mabena have also been dropped.
Incoming goalkeepers Mondli Mpoto and SuperSport’s Samukelo Xulu were never in the preliminary selection.
Sundowns loanee Thabang Sibanyoni and Chippa United midfielder Sinoxolo Kwayiba were also not in the 50-man provisional side but have made the final squad.
Stellenbosch dominate Mhkalele’s team with four players Thabo Moloisane, Antonio van Wyk, Devin Titus and Athenkosi Mcaba.
Bafana will push for a sixth Cosafa Cup title and begin their campaign against Mozambique on Wednesday.
Mkhalele’s players will be bidding to get more recognition in how Iqraam Rayners performed at the tournament last year to muscle his way into Hugo Broos’ side.
Pictured above: Orlando Pirates starlet Relebohile Mofokeng hoisted by Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams.
Image source: Bafana Bafana
