South Africa has received a significant boost ahead of their African Nations Championship (CHAN) second leg qualifier against Malawi, scheduled for Sunday at Loftus Stadium.
Coach Molefi Ntseki expressed relief during Thursday’s training session as he welcomed back key players Neo Maema, Ndumulelo Maphangule, Victor Letsoalo, Siyanda Msani, Simon Ramabu, and Kamogelo Sebelebele. These players were unavailable during the first leg held in Lilongwe, where Malawi secured a narrow 1-0 victory with Zeliati Nkhoma scoring the winner.
Ntseki, pleased with the reinforcements, noted a marked improvement during a tough training match against Motsepe Foundation Championship side Casric Stars at Loftus. Reflecting on the first leg loss, Ntseki admitted that South Africa struggled with game management, especially given the lack of match fitness among some players who had not been playing regularly or were without clubs.
“The plan in Malawi was to score and not concede, but we struggled with game management and ended up allowing a late goal,” Ntseki remarked. “Despite the setback, we took valuable lessons from that game.”
Ntseki explained that the return of the six players was facilitated by requests to their clubs, particularly those not involved in weekend fixtures. “Clubs like Chippa United, Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, and Golden Arrows were cooperative. Their positive response allowed us to bring in the players we needed to strengthen the squad,” he added.
The return of these seasoned players has given Ntseki renewed confidence ahead of the clash against Malawi. He emphasized the importance of maintaining balance and cohesion as the team prepares for the decisive fixture.
Ntseki remains optimistic that the team will deliver a more disciplined and effective performance to overturn the deficit and secure qualification.
The CHAN tournament, exclusively for players competing in their home countries’ domestic leagues, serves as a critical platform for local talents to gain international exposure. Malawi will travel to South Africa on Friday as the game is scheduled for Sunday in Pretoria.
