Monnapule Saleng, the Orlando Pirates superstar, has withdrawn from the Bafana Bafana squad for the upcoming friendlies against Eswatini and Ivory Coast.
Saleng’s absence has paved the way for the talented Khanyisa Mayo to step in as his replacement.
The Road to Withdrawal
Saleng’s decision to withdraw from the Bafana Bafana squad comes after his recent participation in a high-stakes final match against Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8.
IN OTHER NEWS: Saleng Donates R100k To His Former Club
The match saw Orlando Pirates clinching victory on penalties, capping off a thrilling encounter.
While Saleng played a key role in his team’s success, it appears that the rigors of the game took a toll on his health, leading to his withdrawal from the national squad.
Khanyisa Mayo’s Call-Up
Following Monnapule Saleng’s withdrawal, the spotlight has shifted to Mayo, a Cape Town City FC’s talisman, who has been called up to fill the void left by the Pirates’ superstar.
𝗧𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆’𝘀 𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲: Fitting for our number 1️⃣0️⃣ 👌
Khanyisa Mayo has been called up to the Bafana Bafana squad ahead of their upcoming international friendlies 🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/lc8HzB0SB4
— Cape Town City FC (@CapeTownCityFC) October 10, 2023
Mayo’s remarkable performance and consistency have earned him a well-deserved opportunity to represent Bafana Bafana on the international stage.
Mdu Mdantsane’s Earlier Inclusion
Interestingly, Mayo is not the only player to be drafted into the Bafana squad as a replacement. Prior to Mayo’s call-up, Mdu Mdantsane, a former teammate of Mayo at City, was brought in to replace Percy Tau.
IN OTHER NEWS: Orlando Pirates Captain Innocent Maela Faces Prolonged Injury Layoff
These swift changes in the squad highlight the flexibility and adaptability of the national team’s coaching staff as they strive to assemble the strongest possible lineup.
Upcoming Friendlies
Bafana’s journey continues with the upcoming friendlies.
The national team is set to face Eswatini at the iconic FNB Stadium on the 13th of November.
This match will serve as an opportunity for the newly formed squad, including Mayo, to demonstrate their capabilities.
IN OTHER NEWS: Thembinkosi Lorch’s Sentencing Postponed Again
Following the Eswatini encounter, the team will embark on a journey to Ivory Coast for their next challenge, where they will aim to put their best foot forward.