A South African-born forward, Andras Nemeth, who made his debut for Hungary during the week, was reportedly eager to turn out for Bafana Bafana.
Nemeth was born in Cape Town to a South African mother and a Hungary dad and recently told a Bafana star that his heart was to represent South Africa.
However, it appears there needed to be more intent from the South Africa Football Association [SAFA] to bring the youngster on board.
Eventually, Nemeth, who turns out for Belgian side Genk, ended up playing for Hungary and scored on debut. This was against Luxembourg in an international friendly that ended 2-2 on Thursday.
The 20-year-old had been introduced as a substitute in the game.
‘HE IS AN INCREDIBLE PLAYER’
“I had a chat with him recently, and he told me how eager he was to play for Bafana. I had hoped he’d play for us because he’s an incredible player with immense talent,” said a Bafana Bafana star, who is currently in camp with the national team.
Nemeth had impressive stats in the 2020/21 season with Genk B, which led to his well-deserved first-team breakthrough.
In 21 games, the young marksman scored 20 goals and provided eight assists for the reserve side.
This season, Nemeth has made six starts and nine substitute appearances. He has one goal and three assists for Genk. In Hungary Under 21s, he scored eight goals in 11 appearances.
At the Belgian side, home to the late Anele Ngcongca, he deputises Nigerian forward Paul Onuachu. The Super Eagles star is undoubtedly one of the most prolific strikers in the Belgian topflight.
The Nigerian has scored 13 goals in 14 games this season, and the club knows he could leave anytime.
Nemeth is seen as someone who can step into his shoes when he eventually leaves. There is interest in the lanky Super Eagle from European clubs, including the English Premier League.
“I’m sure he’s learning quite a lot from Onuachu. And I’m sure the club has great plans for him. Perhaps Bafana would have benefited from him in future,” said the source.
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