Ex-Ajax midfielder sheds light on Sishuba’s national allegiance
Ex-Ajax Cape Town midfielder Mkhanyiseli Siwahla has shared insights into the intriguing situation surrounding young RC Lens winger Ayanda Sishuba’s national allegiance.
Sishuba, born in Belgium to a Belgian mother and a South African father, faces a unique conundrum as he is eligible to represent either of these two nations.
However, South Africa risks missing out on this promising talent, as the Belgian youth national team extended their invitation to him over a year ago, giving him his first taste of international youth football.
“I know his father, we are always talking about Ayanda, talking about him joining Bafana Bafana,” Siwahla told FARPost.
“At the end of the day, it’s his decision. As a South African, I would love to see him playing for Bafana Bafana because it reminds me of our days.”
SIWAHLA WANTS SISHUBA TO REPRESENT BAFANA
Recently, the 18-year-old winger marked a significant milestone by scoring his first goal for the Belgium Under 19 team. Sishuba played a crucial role in the match that saw Belgium secure a convincing 3-0 victory over the Czech Republic.
Siwahla spoke about his relationship with his father and the tough decision that faced them.
“Myself and his father are friends. We are very close, and as I understand, it’s a decision they will make soon,” continued Siwahla.
“Due to his performances, the Belgium team will also want him. It’s a tricky situation, but his father will respect his decision.
“I hope he can play for Bafana, but ya, it’s a decision he must make between Bafana and Belgium.
“We need these kinds of players that can help the country. But it’s something that they are still going to discuss. Will it be Bafana or Belgium? It is a big decision.
“His father is leaning towards Bafana, but a decision has not officially been taken yet.”
Recent criticism has been directed towards SAFA’s inability to secure talents pursuing their careers abroad.
Nevertheless, considering Sishuba’s youth and potential, there remains hope he may switch allegiance and represent South Africa. The key lies in the swift action of the South African Football Federation to recruit and embrace this promising player.
Story by Joshua Hendricks
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