Mahlangu urges Chaine to improve distribution after Egypt win

Former Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates midfielder Jabu Mahlangu has warned that Sipho Chaine must improve his use of the ball if he is to challenge Ronwen Williams for Bafana Bafana’s starting goalkeeper role.

Chaine made a rare appearance for South Africa in Sunday night’s 1-0 friendly victory over Egypt at Cairo International Stadium. Puso Dithejane scored the only goal as Pitso Mosimane’s side secured a historic clean sheet.

The 29-year-old Orlando Pirates goalkeeper is established as Williams’ deputy, but his most recent involvement with the matchday squad had been as an unused substitute in the 5-0 win over Eritrea.

Chaine was replaced after 62 minutes against Egypt, having produced a composed display during his time on the pitch. However, Mahlangu, known as ‘Shuffle’, believes the modern international game requires goalkeepers to contribute more when their team is under pressure.

“I think that’s where Ronwen is superior to Chaine,” Mahlangu said on SABC Sport after the match.

“Because he is more involved. He is more of a sweeper. I think Sipho Chaine needs to improve; I don’t know if he will have time to improve playing with the ball like modern goalkeepers.

“Look, he is a good goalkeeper, but unfortunately, he is lacking. You have to play as a goalkeeper. You have to play with your feet, and [as players] we have to trust you. When we are under pressure, we have to be able to pass it to you. You must open up. So that’s where Chaine lacks.

“How old is he? I’m looking at the time, when will he be able to fix it?”

Chaine’s record season with Orlando Pirates

Chaine’s comments come after a standout domestic campaign with Orlando Pirates. According to Transfermarkt, he kept 21 clean sheets in 30 Betway Premiership matches and conceded only 12 goals as the Buccaneers won their first league title in 14 years.

His performances also earned him the PSL Goalkeeper of the Season award, adding to a record-breaking season for the club.

South Africa’s victory in Cairo is expected to improve their position in the next FIFA World Rankings and continues the team’s upward progress under Mosimane.

Bafana Bafana will next look to build on the result during the international window from November 9–17.

Their next competitive fixtures will come in a 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Kenya. South Africa will host the Harambee Stars in Matchday 3 before travelling to Kenya for the return fixture.