Stellenbosch FC defender Fawaaz Basadien has named two former Bafana Bafana stars as his sources of inspiration since his childhood.
The 28-year-old was a standout performer for Stellenbosch FC in the recently concluded 2024/25 Betway Premiership season. He played in 46 matches across all competitions, directly contributing to 15 goals with seven strikes and eight assists.
Given Basadien’s stellar displays and experience, the left-back was given the responsibility to captain Bafana in their international friendly game against Tanzania on Friday, 6 June 2025. The match ended in a goalless draw at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.
The former Moroka Swallows man had a fantastic season with the Cape Winelands-based outfit, where they reached the 2024/25 CAF Confederation Cup semi-finals, and finished third in the Premiership with 48 points from 28 matches.
Having finished third in the SA elite league, Stellies qualified for the 2025/26 Confederation Cup tournament.
THE TWO FORMER SA PLAYERS THAT FAWAAZ BASADIEN ADMIRES
Basadien revealed that he drew inspiration from Benni McCarthy and Nasief Morris. The duo also played for Bafana Bafana back in the days.
He went on to state that he had the privilege to play alongside Morris during his stint with Milano United.
“I think growing up watching the national team, I mainly watched guys like Benni McCarthy and Nasief Morris,” said Basadien. “I also played with Nasief Morris. I think those guys are big legends. For me, I was always learning from them and trying to see what they did.
“Obviously, I had the privilege to play with Nasief, so I also got to learn a lot from him. His good qualities and leadership skills were some of the things I have learnt from him, and I told myself that if one day I become the captain of the national team, I can implement what I have learned from him and help those who are coming through.”
Basadien will be hoping to feature in Bafana’s second friendly match against Mozambique on Tuesday, 10 June 2025, in Polokwane.
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