Lekgwathi urges Mosimane to build on Pirates defensive partnership for Bafana Bafana

Former Orlando Pirates captain Lucky Lekgwathi believes Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane should consider pairing Lebone Seema and Nkosinathi Sibisi in central defence, with the two players already familiar with one another from club football.

Seema was named in Mosimane’s final squad for the upcoming international window after completing a consistent second season with Orlando Pirates. Sibisi is one of the more experienced defenders in the national-team set-up, giving Mosimane the option of using the established Pirates partnership at international level.

Lekgwathi said the understanding between the two defenders could benefit Bafana Bafana.

“Unfortunately coach Hugo didn’t pick him and Sibisi when he was still here but a combination and connection like that is something that Bafana could build on.”

Seema’s selection had been widely expected after the 23-year-old was named Defender of the Season for his performances with Pirates.

Lekgwathi described the call-up as a deserved reward for the defender’s form since joining the Buccaneers, adding that his consistency had made the recognition overdue.

“It’s a well deserved call up for Seema of course, he is the current defender of the season so some might say it’s long overdue because he’s been very consistent for a person just in his second season with Pirates.”

The international window will give Mosimane the chance to assess his defensive options as he begins his second spell in charge of Bafana Bafana.

His squad combines experienced internationals with younger players, including Seema, who will be aiming to establish himself in the national-team set-up.

Bafana Bafana begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Guinea at Orlando Stadium on September 26. They will then travel to Egypt to play Eritrea on September 30 before facing Egypt in a friendly on October 4.

The three-match schedule gives Mosimane an opportunity to test different defensive combinations. It will also allow him to assess whether the understanding Seema and Sibisi have developed at Orlando Pirates can be carried into the international game.