 |
| Rising Stars Shine in National Team Debuts |
June 6, 2025
South African football fans were treated to a glimpse of the future as several young talents stepped onto the international stage for the first time. In a friendly match that ended in a goalless draw against Tanzania, new faces made their mark in what turned out to be a proud evening for local club football and the national team alike.The national squad, under the guidance of its current head coach, featured a strong representation from one of the country's top clubs. Out of nine players from this club called up for the match, four earned game time—with three of them experiencing their first senior international cap. This match marked the first of two fixtures set for the June international window, as preparations intensify ahead of a crucial run of games later this year.
One of the most notable moments of the evening came from 20-year-old midfielder Simphiwe Selepe. Having only recently begun his professional career, he was selected to start and impressed with a composed performance in the center of the pitch. He even created a promising chance for teammate Oswin Appollis just before the halftime break, ultimately completing a full 90 minutes in his debut.
Joining Selepe in the starting lineup was right-back Deano van Rooyen, who also made his first appearance for the national side. Returning faces Patrick Maswanganyi and Thalente Mbatha added further experience to the team, earning their fifth and sixth international caps, respectively.
From the bench, another debutant stepped up in the second half. Forward Mohau Nkota was introduced in the 69th minute, taking his place on the field alongside Relebohile Mofokeng, who came on for Maswanganyi to earn his eighth cap.
Several other squad members remained unused during the match, including goalkeeper Sipho Chaine and defenders Nkosinathi Sibisi and Mbekezeli Mbokazi. For 19-year-old Mbokazi, the dream of his first international appearance remains within reach as the team prepares for their second match of the window.
The national team is set to return to action early next week, once again at the recently opened stadium in Limpopo, where they will take on regional rivals in another high-stakes friendly scheduled for Tuesday evening at 19:30.