Sithole earns praise for mature performance in Bafana Bafana win over Egypt

iDiski TV analyst Benedict Vilakazi believes Sphephelo Sithole produced one of his most assured performances for Bafana Bafana in their international friendly victory over Egypt in Cairo on Sunday.

The 27-year-old midfielder started all three of South Africa’s matches during the recent international window. He assisted one of the goals in the 2-1 win over Guinea before scoring in the 5-0 victory against Eritrea in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.

Sithole, who is often criticised by supporters and pundits, was singled out by Vilakazi, known as Tso, for his anticipation, passing and willingness to move the ball forward against Egypt.

“I think he had a good game today [Sunday] and I liked how he was anticipating those balls and then going forward and playing a positive pass,” Vilakazi said on iDiski TV.

The former South Africa international said a defensive midfielder must look to attack quickly after regaining possession, rather than allowing the opposition to reorganise.

“That is good because remember that as a defensive midfielder when you win the ball, in your mind these guys they are already open, they were attacking,” he said.

“So, as you win the ball, you need to be positive because the minute you play safe, you give them time to regroup.

“By the time you want to go there, everyone is back. So that’s my problem with him. But tonight, I think he played well. He was not the Sithole that we were crying about to say no why is he in the national team.”

Sithole, who plays for Tondela FC, has faced questions over his place in the national side, but Vilakazi said his display in Cairo suggested he was developing a clearer understanding of his responsibilities.

“I think he is growing and understands that I need to do this, and when I do this, it gives us an opportunity to really create chances,” he added.

Vilakazi’s comments came after Bafana Bafana’s win over Egypt, with the performance offering a positive assessment of Sithole’s contribution during a busy period for the midfielder.

His full analysis of the international friendly between Egypt and South Africa is available on the official iDiski TV YouTube channel.