Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has dropped a hint on whether Veli Mothwa, who made a blunder against Uganda, will start against South Sudan on Tuesday.
South Africa drew 2-2 in an entertaining clash against The Cranes in what was the first match of the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.
Broos’ team staged a late comeback, with Orlando Pirates player Thalente Mbatha, who was substituted in the second half for Siphephelo Sithole, scoring the equalizer.
The first goal for Bafana was netted by Burnley forward Lyle Foster, who opened the scoring in the first half.
After conceding the initial goal in the 51st minute, Mothwa made a significant mistake just two minutes later, allowing the visitors to take the lead.
Mothwa’s inclusion in the starting line-up came as a surprise somewhat to many with Orlando Pirates goalie Sipho Chaine overlooked.
It’s noteworthy that Mothwa hasn’t played any competitive games this season while Chaine has featured in all CAF Champions League and MTN8 matches Pirates have played in this campaign.
WILL MOTHWA BE IN THE STARTING LINEUP AGAINST SOUTH SUDAN?
While Broos maintained that he has no regrets about starting Mothwa on Friday, he suggested that the Usuthu goalkeeper might not be mentally prepared to play on Tuesday. The coach expressed concerns that Mothwa's current state of mind could increase the risk of errors.
“It’s not a nice thing for a goalkeeper when he makes such a mistake,” said Broos.
“Okay, it’s 1-1 but as a keeper you know what you’ve done. We could have lost the game with that.
“He’s really down for the moment, but we will see in the next days. If you feel he’s not ready to play the game on Tuesday (against South Sudan).
“Then you can’t put him because the risk is there that he makes the mistake again.”
