In-form South African striker Tashreeq Matthews has addressed his latest Bafana Bafana snub by coach Hugo Broos.
Matthews has been in fine form in Sweden, where he turns out for IK Sirius. The 23-year-old has scored 10 goals and provided 10 assists in 28 matches for the Allsvenskan side this season.
His career path took an interesting turn after he left Borussia Dortmund, where he continued to pursue first-team football at Varberg BoIS in Sweden. His two-year stint there, however, came with its own set of challenges.
“I was at Varberg for two and a half years and got injured the last year I was there. I got back from injury, did not play, and decided to leave Varberg and join Sirius one day before deadline day,” Matthews told FARPost.
MATTHEWS NOT DETERRED BY BAFANA SNUB
Earlier this week, Bafana mentor Hugo Broos named his provisional squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Once again, there was no place for Matthews. When asked about his national team snub, Matthews said he was eager to don the Bafana jersey.
“I mean, I’d like to be called up to the national team, but if I don’t get called, I don’t let it set me back. My time will come,” continued Matthews.
“Of course, I do get disappointed, but my time will come, I believe that.”
Matthews’ words reflect his resilience and unwavering belief in his future with the national team. He acknowledges the disappointment of not receiving the call-up but remains steadfast.
When asked if he thinks he could add value to the team, he remained modest. “I don’t want to comment. Once I’m there, I can say.”
Against the backdrop of this national team snub, it’s worth noting that Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has been actively seeking a successor to Themba Zwane, who is approaching the twilight of his career.
Zwane, the Mamelodi Sundowns’ talisman, is 34 years old, and Broos recently admitted the need for a successor. At 23, he could bring youthful energy and potential to the national team.
Story by Joshua Hendricks
RELATED STORY: DONE DEAL: Tashreeq Matthews completes European switch
