Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has explained the footballing qualities that Mduduzi Shabalala brings to the national team ahead of their FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday.
Shabalala was initially included in Broos’ preliminary squad but did not make the final list. However, he was later called up to replace Relebohile Mofokeng, who picked up an injury during Orlando Pirates’ Carling Knockout Cup clash against Siwelele on Saturday.
This marks Shabalala’s second Bafana Bafana call-up for the World Cup qualifiers.
“I think if you watch the games of Kaizer Chiefs, Mduduzi is someone who has the action,” Broos said.
“He knows where to run, and for me, his best position is behind the strikers. So if we use him, it will be in that position.”
South Africa was recently deducted three points by FIFA for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in their 2-0 victory over Lesotho in March.
The sanction has left Bafana Bafana in second place in Group C with 14 points after eight matches — level with Benin.
Broos, however, insists that the point deduction does not change Bafana’s objective.
“I don’t have to tell you that maybe the next games are historical. Everyone knows it has been 24 years since South Africa last qualified for the World Cup,” said Broos.
“Our situation has changed a little because of the three-point deduction, but not completely. Even with those points, we still needed to win our last two games to be mathematically sure of qualification.
“Looking at the group, there are four teams involved. It’s impossible for all four to win both of their remaining matches. That’s why Friday’s game is so important. If we win, we move to 17 points. If Nigeria wins both of their matches, they can also reach 17, the same as Rwanda.
“But since Benin still has to play both Nigeria and Rwanda, it’s impossible for all three to win both games. So, winning on Friday is crucial for us.”
Broos expressed full confidence in his squad ahead of the decisive fixtures.
“There has never been any doubt from my side, and I’ll make sure to convey that belief to the players during our team meeting,” he added.
“I believe in this group, and I’m sure on Friday they’ll give everything to win the match.
“Why should we doubt them after the performances they’ve shown in the past eight qualifiers? If there’s one team that deserves to qualify, it’s South Africa.”
Bafana Bafana will wrap up their World Cup qualifying campaign against Rwanda at Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday at 18:00.
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