Mhlongo’s wait for Bafana chance over

BRIGHTON Mhlongo used to eagerly wait for Senzo Meyiwa to return from Bafana Bafana camps to hear about the inspiring stories of international football.

Mhlongo, the Orlando Pirates goalkeeper who was an understudy to the late Meyiwa, believed that he would one day represent his country at senior level.

The wait to become part of the senior national team is finally over for Mhlongo, thanks to some good performances for the Buccaneers this season.

He is part of the Bafana squad for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Gambia in Bakau on Saturday.

“Senzo and I used to share a lot of things. He would go play for the squad and come back to tell me about the training methods because goalkeeper coaches differ.

“I envied him. Now this is my chance. I have to work hard to cement my spot.”

He added: “I also talk to guys like Thabo [Matlaba] and [Thamsanqa] Gabuza about their experiences in the national team. So I know what’s expected of me. My hard work and patience have paid off and it shows that I am growing as a player.”

Having Rowen Fernandez as goalkeeper coach at Pirates has also helped Mhlongo prepare for his first national team camp. Fernandez used to be a regular for the national team.

“When I received the news that I have been called up, Fernandez was the first one to congratulate me.

“He said we need to work harder to keep my spot in the [Bafana] team,” said Mhlongo.

“I am competing with two of the best goalkeepers in the country – Itumeleng Khune and Jackson Mabokgwane – so it motivates me.”