Monnapule Saleng released from Bafana Bafana camp and returns to Orlando Pirates ahead of important Nedbank Cup clash with SuperSport United

Bafana Bafana is preparing for their Chan second-leg match against Egypt as the first leg ended in a 1-1 draw in Bloemfontein. Anticipating a tough clash ahead, Coach Molefi Ntseki has made several squad changes ahead of the away fixture.

Some players have been released back to their clubs they are Nduduzo Mhlongo from Golden Arrows, Naledi Hlongwane from Kaizer Chiefs, and Monnapule Saleng and Azola Tshobeni from Orlando Pirates. Victor Letsoalo, Mondli Mpoto and Levy Mashiane are the new faces have been called up to strengthen specific positions.

The team departs for Egypt on Thursday, 6 March 2025. Ntseki explained that squad adjustments were based on player performances and tactical needs.

He emphasized the importance of reinforcing key positions. He thanked the departing players for their contributions. The coach is confident in the new squad balance. He believes the selected players will give their best in Egypt. He remains optimistic about securing a positive result.

“So, what we did when we got to camp, we did a squad profile to see who is playing and who is better in which positions in terms of our approach. With us doing that, we also worked on the structure,” he said. “We realized that after the game in Bloemfontein, there are certain positions that we needed to reinforce, especially with us having to go and play Egypt in Egypt," Ntseki told Safa media.

“So, we have released a few of our players that came to camp last week. We have brought in a few of the players in terms of the squad balance. We had to thank them by releasing these players back to their clubs.”

“The players that are here will give us a very good balance, so we are looking forward to giving other players a chance like those that were given a chance against Egypt in the first leg. They did well and we are very positive with what we have in camp going into Egypt. We know they will be giving their best and the best for their country.”

Bafana Bafana travels to Egypt with an important away goal. The team needs a strong performance to secure qualification for the African Nations Championship. Several key players are unavailable for the match. Letsoalo is expected to contribute in the attack.

Mashiane has a chance to get minutes despite not playing for his club due to his ongoing case. The squad will have to adapt to the challenges in Egypt. The coach believes the selected players will step up

Bafana Bafana will play Egypt on Sunday, 9 March 2025. The match will take place in Egypt. The team aims to secure a strong result. Players will have a chance to prove themselves. Ntseki is focused on a balanced squad.

It remains to be seen whether Pirates will include Saleng in their matchday squad for Saturday's Nedbank Cup quarter-final clash with SuperSport United.