BAFANA Bafana are finally exploring their depth in talent, with new head coach Stuart Baxter uncovering a few uncut gems for the future.
Baxter fielded a makeshift lineup of SA Under-20 and a few experienced PSL players in their 2-0 Africa Nations Championship (Chan) first leg qualifier win over Botswana in Francistown at the weekend.
Baxter’s new captain, Mario Booysens, believes the coach has given youngsters from all over Mzansi hope that they too could play for the national team one day.
Said Booysens ahead of Saturday’s second leg against the Zebras at Rustenburg’s Moruleng Stadium (3pm): “I think the coach is on the right track. I’m impressed by the hunger and desire to succeed I’ve seen from the younger players in this camp. It shows we have some good talent coming through. Everyone is on the same page.
“They are a good bunch of players. There are opportunities out there now and who knows who the new names will be in the next Bafana squad.”
Baxter said he still had over 300 players he had not even been able to consider for Chan due to the fact that the tournament falls outside the Fifa calendar.
Booysens (29) said it was his proudest moment to captain his country: “Playing for Bafana in the Cosafa Cup and being captain in the two Chan qualifiers – it is such a boost for my confidence and has done a lot for my career.”
Booysens, a tough-as-teak central defender, has been recalled by Mamelodi Sundowns after an 18-month loan to SuperSport United.
Said the player: “I’ll find out what is happening with my club career in the next few weeks. But at the moment my focus is on helping Bafana reach the next round of Chan.”
Booysens said the players were fired up for Saturday’s home clash with the Zebras: “We’re ready. As long as we stick to the coach’s game plan, we know we can win it. We aim to finish this off with a win at home.”
- Meanwhile, SuperSport United midfielder Michael Morton is set to add to his two caps after replacing his SuperSport United teammate Teboho Mokoena.
Said Morton: “I am proud to be here again. It means everything to put on the South African jersey. It is always a highlight in your career.”
