PSL players bolster SA U-23 squad

After being forced to leave the country with some of his squad left behind, South African national Under-23 coach David Notoane was glad to see some experienced players arriving at their base in Cairo yesterday, ahead of their Under-23 Caf Africa Cup of Nations opener against Zambia tomorrow.

Notoane struggled to get some of his players in time, due to club commitments, with only part of the tournament falling in the Fifa international break. He initially departed for Egypt earlier this week with only 12 players.

Mamelodi Sundowns, Bloemfontein Celtic and Chippa United did, however, release Keletso

Makgalwa, Mondli Mpoto and team captain Tercious Malepe (above) respectively.

“We welcomed the trio who all arrived this morning (yesterday) to push our number to 15 and will of course improve the quality of the team in preparation for the

Zambia game,” said Notoane.

“We are happy that they were able to join us and we appreciate the support from the clubs.

“Tercious got a red card (in Chippa United’s game) and against the will of the club, we are happy that they released him. They could have kept him as agreed and released him during the Fifa week. So, we are grateful.”

In preparation for the start of the tournament, Notoane’s charges played a practice match against Zamalek and he was impressed with what he saw from a new member of the squad, 18-year old Kegan Johannes of Ajax Cape Town.

“The game against Zamalek showed us what his capabilities are, what his abilities are and we are happy with his performance.”