How Ngezana inspires Mahlatse Makudubela to keep Bafana dream alive
Despite age not being on his side, SA winger Mahlatse ‘Skudu’ Makudubela has revealed how FCSB star Siyabonga Ngezana inspires him to keep the Bafana Bafana dream alive.
Like Ngezana, the 34-year-old former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns attacker sealed a move abroad ahead of the 2023/24 season.
Ex-Kaizer Chiefs defender Ngezana headed to Romania after parting ways with Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs. On the other hand, Makudubela signed a one-year deal with Tanzanian giants Young Africans SC, which came to an end on 30 June. This was after parting ways with Marumo Gallants, who were relegated from the DStv Premiership.
Ngezana finally received a Bafana Bafana call-up in 2024. The last time he was part of the squad was in 2018 when Stuart Baxter was the coach.
Due to visa issues, he failed to make it in March for the FIFA Series against Andorra and Algeria. The 26-year-old was then available for selection in June for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Nigeria and Zimbabwe. He started both matches and displayed great performances.
MAHLATSE MAKUDUBELA ON SIYABONGA NGEZANA
Mahlatse Makudubela says he needs to work extra hard like Siyabonga Ngezana, then eventually he will get his Bafana call-up.
Makudubela further praised coach Hugo Broos and Co. for the great job they’re doing in the national team.
“Yeah [Bafana call-up is something I think of], I had a conversation with Siyabonga Ngezana; he stepped out of the country,” Makudubela told SNAWA.
“He struggled a little bit when he got to Romania, then he got his footing, and things got different, and now he’s playing in the national team.
“They say, ‘When you hang around in the barbershop long enough, you will soon get a haircut’. I still need to give that little bit of a push for me to be recognised out there, so it’s a process.”
“With all due respect to players that are playing, very very exceptional players, they are doing well for the country. Shoutout also to coach [Hugo] Broos he’s doing a good job, their recruitment team also are doing their job.”
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