Mahlangu keen for Bafana start
Mahlangu was in headlines late last year after pulling out of a Bafana training camp. The Turkey-based player cited fatigue when he failed to join up with the squad for their Afcon qualifiers against Sudan and Nigeria.
However, Mahlangu starts in the Bafana midfield this afternoon and is looking to impress.
“Im delighted to be back – it’s a feeling I can’t even explain. I’m happy to be back playing for my country. I’m proud and thankful for the coach selecting me to represent my country,” Mahlangu said earlier this week.
Bafana coach Shakes Mashaba named Mahlangu in the starting line-up, despite Mahlangu’s absence last year. The 26-year-old is coming out of a tough season, and is looking to put last year’s debacle behind him.
“It’s been a tough season with what happened in the past – but we’re not going to go back and talk about that. As I said, we focus on the future. It’s been a rough season but I’m glad I’m still standing and doing well for myself.”
Bafana and Gambia meet for the first time since South Africa’s readmission in 1992. While many of the players are completely unfamiliar with the visitors, Mahlangu cautioned his teammates ahead of the clash.
“I’ve seen them play and I’ve played against some of their players in Turkey. I know what they can do – we’re looking forward to doing well as a team and the coach has also prepared us well.”
Kickoff today is 15h00 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Image credit: Gallo Images
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