Ncikazi backs Msibi as Golden Arrows’ first-choice goalkeeper despite Bafana call-up for Mbanjwa

Golden Arrows head coach Mandla Ncikazi says Dumsiani Msibi will remain in goal for the foreseeable future, despite Thakasani Mbanjwa being included in the preliminary Bafana Bafana squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

Mbanjwa, 30, was one of four goalkeepers selected by Pitso Mosimane after taking his opportunity when Edward Maova suffered an injury during the opening stage of the season. He made three clean-sheet contributions in seven appearances, performances which helped attract the attention of the national team selectors.

However, Msibi has started Golden Arrows’ past three matches since joining the club from Chippa United in the last transfer window. Mbanjwa has been left on the bench during that run.

Sanele Tshabalala and Xolani Ngcobo complete Ncikazi’s goalkeeping options, but the coach has made clear that he does not intend to rotate his goalkeepers while his preferred starter is performing well.

“Don’t fix if it’s not broken,” Ncikazi said. “When I arrived at the club, Msibi was in goal. I have a record of playing a goalkeeper for 45 games. When I was at Arrows, I only used one goalkeeper. I am not a fan of alternating goalkeepers.”

Ncikazi said Msibi had performed well in his first match under the coach, making it difficult to justify a change.

“When I arrived, Msibi played the game and he played well,” he added. “We are blessed with three goalkeepers, but they will have to wait. If the one who is playing does well, we will keep him.”

The coach also pointed to Msibi’s suitability for the style he wants Golden Arrows to adopt, particularly the team’s ability to build possession from the back while also using longer passes when required.

“Based on the game that we want to play, Msibi has one capacity – the ability to build from the back – and Arrows are about that,” Ncikazi said. “The ability to play long and short, with good quality.”

Ncikazi praised Mbanjwa but said the goalkeeper would have to remain patient while Msibi continued to meet his standards.

“Mbanjwa is a top goalkeeper, but if the other one is doing well, unfortunately he has to wait,” he said. “But I love the attitude from all the keepers at the club.”

Golden Arrows have lost their past two matches under Ncikazi. They were beaten 1-0 by AmaZulu in the league before suffering a 1-0 Carling Knockout Cup defeat by Mamelodi Sundowns.