Poggenpoel says Bafana Bafana call-ups should be earned on performances

Brooklyn Poggenpoel says players do not need to represent one of South Africa’s traditional big three clubs to earn a place in Bafana Bafana, insisting national team opportunities are available to anyone performing consistently in the league.

The Durban City midfielder believes membership of Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates or Kaizer Chiefs is not a requirement for selection.

“I think everybody has got a fair chance in the league,” Poggenpoel told Sowetan. “The coach has given debuts to so many players in the last camp, so I don’t think it’s which club you play for [that determines a Bafana call-up]. It’s just about performances at club level because everybody gets a fair look.”

Poggenpoel, 27, made his international debut in Bafana Bafana’s 5-0 victory over Eritrea in an Afcon qualifier in Cairo late in September. He came on as a substitute for the injured Bathusi Aubaas.

The occasion was particularly difficult for the midfielder, who was mourning the death of his maternal grandfather. His grandfather was buried in Cape Town on the same day that Bafana Bafana secured their emphatic win over Eritrea.

Despite the family loss, Poggenpoel said he had to focus on the responsibility of representing his country.

“It is an honour and privilege to be representing your country. Everything happening in your personal life you just have to put it aside. You are not representing yourself but your nation. You just have to put your best foot forward,” he said.

Bafana Bafana remain top of Group D in the Afcon qualifiers after victories over Guinea and Eritrea during the last Fifa break.

Their next challenge is a pair of matches against Benni McCarthy’s Kenya. The first game is scheduled for Orlando Stadium on Friday, with the return fixture taking place in Nairobi four days later. Both matches kick off at 6pm.

Poggenpoel says the team’s priority is to build on its strong opening to the group stage and preserve its position at the summit.

“Everyone wanted a strong start to the group stages, especially at home,” he said. “To get the win away [in Cairo against Eritrea] was another positive. So now it is about securing three points at home and following it up with a good result away so we can go into the next break with good form, good rhythm and at the top of the group.”