Mosimane offers enigmatic explanation for Zwane’s Bafana Bafana selection

Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane has given an unclear explanation for selecting Themba Zwane, suggesting the midfielder’s importance to the squad extends beyond his performances on the pitch.

Zwane’s inclusion for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Guinea and Eritrea, as well as the forthcoming international friendly against Egypt, has prompted discussion since Mosimane named his squad.

The 35-year-old was included among the substitutes for Saturday’s 2-1 victory over Guinea at Orlando but did not play. He was, however, seen in an extended conversation with Mosimane shortly before the coach replaced Iqraam Rayners with Yanela Mbuthuma.

Mbuthuma went on to provide the assist for the winning goal.

Asked about his discussion with Zwane after the match, Mosimane said he had spoken to several members of his squad before offering a guarded explanation for the player’s selection.

“I didn’t speak to Themba only,” said Mosimane.

“I spoke to the whole team, I spoke to [Lebone] Seema also.

“It’s very difficult for me to explain to you why I bring Themba Zwane, because you’re looking at the age. And you are right if you’re looking at the age, but he is very, very important for me. He knows the team well. He knows the players well.”

Mosimane also said Seema had played a part in the decision, explaining that he wanted a specific type of forward for the match.

“And also Seema contributed because I needed a nine, nine, nine. I needed a nine. I hope you understand. I don’t need a Cassius [Mailula] for this game. Cassius is smart. He’s intelligent.

“But I needed a nine because you know Iqraam can take you out with one ball. You saw that. I mean the ball did not fall for Iqraam. There’s one I thought it will fall for him, and as he tried to turn and he’d scored that ball, but it didn’t fall for him.”

Zwane remains part of the squad for the matches against Eritrea and Egypt, despite not featuring in the victory over Guinea.