‘He should be in the Bafana sqaud’: Ex-Bucs striker on Sundowns star
Former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns striker Katlego Mashego has identified a current star player from the Tshwane giants who he believes deserves a call-up to the Bafana Bafana squad.
Sundowns players have consistently formed the backbone of the Bafana Bafana squad, playing a crucial role in the national team’s recent successes.
Their contributions were evident in Bafana Bafana’s bronze medal win at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations [AFCON] and their successful qualification for the 2025 AFCON finals in Morocco.
The strong Sundowns representation in the national team is highlighted by the numerous players regularly called up to national team camps. These include key figures such as Ronwen Williams, Grant Kekana, Teboho Mokoena, Aubrey Modiba, Khuliso Mudau, Thapelo Morena, Themba Zwane, Mothobi Mvala, Bathusi Aubaas, and Iqraam Rayners.
MASHEGO TIPS TASHREEQ MATTHEWS FOR A BAFANA BAFANA CALL-UP
Retired striker Mashego says Sundowns winger Tashreeq Matthews deserves to be in the national team. Previously, Matthews has played for the SA Under-20 National Team. Bafana will be in camp in March for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. They will face Lesotho and Benin.
Matthews has been one of the top performers for Masandawana this season. In 17 appearances in all competitions, the 24-year-old has racked up six goals and grabbed five assists.
“Tashreeq has goals in him; he’s got speed, and he uses that to his advantage, making those box entrances. He’s good; he’s a winger that likes to run and go inside to be more involved,” Mashego told FARPost.
“He should be at Bafana. He’s been doing great, and he’s been consistent when he’s given the opportunity to play at Sundowns. I have no doubt that if he gets a call-up, he will impress.
“He has shown quality, even played abroad, where many players dream of playing their football. If he’s selected, it will be based on quality and on merit because of what he’s doing at Sundowns.
“I think defensively, he helps as well. He has the legs, and he’s young [24]. For me, he will give a different dimension to what we already have in the team.”
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