Mexico news

The North African side have moved quickly to replace the South African tactician who quit over the weekend. And, in a twist of fate rarely seen in football, it looks like the two coaches are basically 'swapping' clubs.

Amakhosi players’ continued exclusion from the national team reflects how standards have dropped at Naturena. A former Buccaneers star has not minced his words, insisting the Glamour Boys currently do not have players deserving of a place in the squad. He believes the situation highlights just how far the club has fallen from the level expected of a team of its stature.

The Belgian tactician has named his preliminary squad ahead of the friendly games against Panama later in March. The games have been lined up as part of Bafana's preparations for the global football bonanza in the middle of this year. Already, the coach's preliminary squad has been analysed, and questions have arisen on who should be in and who does not deserve a place in it.

The former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns coach had been going through what appeared to be a difficult spell in Algeria. His time at the capital city club ends less than 24 hours after he guided them to a 2-0 league victory over Paradou AC that put them five points clear at the top of the Algerian Ligue 1 with several games in hand. The sudden exit adds another twist to what had already been a turbulent period for the tactician.

The veteran midfielder remains one player the South Africa national football team could need at the global football tournament if he rediscovers his authority in the middle of the park. Currently used sparingly by Masandawana, he has yet to reach the top form that made him a dominant force in midfield. That has created anticipation over whether he can rise again and reclaim the midfield-king status he once enjoyed.

The Masandawana defender has insisted that his omission from the Bafana squad in their past few camps is not a concern for him as he focuses on helping his club achieve its targets. The defender has developed into one of the most reliable figures in Miguel Cardoso’s set-up this season, battling back from an injury-hit spell to re-establish himself at the core of Sundowns’ defensive unit.

The shot-stopper has been in fine form for the Glamour Boys this season, ensuring the likes of Bruce Bvuma and Fiacre Ntwari don't get a chance. However, he suffered a setback a couple of weeks ago that has seen him miss two Premier Soccer League matches in a row. It was a blow for him as an individual, considering the personal ambitions set.

The former Salernitana goalkeeper can keep Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo company.

The football lovers in the country are looking forward to the global competition that will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The tournament is scheduled to start on Thursday, June 11, and run until Sunday, July 19, where 48 teams around the globe are set to feature. Mzansi are among the nine nations that got a direct ticket after topping their respective qualifying groups.

Players from Masandawana dominated the South Africa national football team squad at the 2023 AFCON tournament, forming the backbone of coach Hugo Broos’ side. However, the most recent national team selections have seen stars from Orlando Pirates making up the majority of the squad. Still, the Brazilians’ players are gradually forcing their way back into the national team fold as they continue to impress at the club level.