Sibisi sparks Bafana's resurgence as other Pirates players follow suit to crush Zambia

Coach Hugo Broos has publicly lauded the contribution of Orlando Pirates defender Nkosinathi Sibisi as he navigates the complexities of Bafana Bafana’s selection ahead of upcoming tournaments.

After Saturday’s 3-1 win over Zambia at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Broos highlighted Sibisi’s remarkable consistency and reliability in defensive scenarios. These qualities have become increasingly vital as the coach seeks to fortify the squad.

His performances with the Sea Robbers have not only attracted the coach’s attention but have now translated into valuable depth for the national team’s defensive line-up. The reassessment of player capabilities demonstrates Broos’s commitment to assembling a squad capable of competing at the highest level.

Broos expressed his delight at being able to rely on Sibisi, as he explained the highly rated Siyabonga Ngezana’s omission.

“That’s important – to notice players like Sibisi. Any moment there can be an injury or suspension, whatever, but then you must be ready, and also today that was the game to do and to give those players a chance,” said Broos.

“Like in the back, okay Sibisi, I know him for four years ... you can always count on him. There are still other players who are behind, like Ngezana, for example, but I didn’t call them up now because I wanted to see these guys.”

The absence of a notable player such as Ngezana was due to a tactical approach informed by the team’s current needs.

“It’s important to make space for players who fit our tactical approach right now,” Broos explained.

This strategic move underscores the need to ensure the team operate harmoniously on the pitch. With careful consideration of each player’s form, Broos has made it clear that performance and suitability to the game plan are paramount in his selection process.

Another Pirates player, Sipho Mbule, delivered a five-star performance on his fifth consecutive start for Bafana Bafana, clinching the Player of the Match award. With two assists to his name, Mbule played an instrumental role in the eventual 3-1 victory, highlighting the contributions from his Pirates teammates on the national stage.

The turning point of the match came just before half-time when Mbule showcased his exceptional vision and passing ability, threading a perfectly timed ball to fellow Pirates player Oswin Appollis. Seizing the opportunity, Appollis calmly slotted home, marking his second international goal in as many appearances and sending the South African crowd into a frenzy.

The partnership between Mbule and Appollis was a joy to witness throughout the match, highlighting the effective collaboration within the Pirates contingent.

As the second half unfolded, Mbule continued to shine. He delivered an exquisite chip from midfield that found former Pirates winger Mohau Nkota. With finesse, Nkota rounded defenders and unleashed a stunning left-footed shot, extending the lead to 2-0 and reaffirming South Africa’s dominance on the pitch.

In total, five Orlando Pirates players made their mark in this high-stakes international friendly, underscoring the club’s critical role in shaping the national team’s dynamics.

Alongside Mbule, Appollis and Sibisi, Mbekezeli Mbokazi showcased his skills prominently. Forward Tshepang Moremi earned his third cap in the encounter, and goalkeeper Sipho Chaine made a marked impact by stepping in at the half-time mark and later donning the captain’s armband following Sibisi’s substitution.

As the match neared its conclusion, striker Evidence Makgopa replaced Lyle Foster, wrapping up the Pirates’ representation with a substitution in the sixty-fourth minute. Meanwhile, Masindi Nemtajela, who had recently received a national team call-up, remained on the bench as an unused substitute.

With the match concluded, the players will return to their club commitments. The nine Bafana players who featured in the game now face their next challenge – a league fixture against Chippa United scheduled for 10 days’ time.