Mamelodi Sundowns’ pair become new faces of Puma football
Mamelodi Sundowns stars Iqraam Rayners and Bathusi Aubaas have earned a major career boost after signing a lucrative endorsement deal with global sportswear giant Puma.
Bafana Bafana ready for AFCON after coach-player dispute resolved
Broos publicly criticised the 20-year-old for what he described as “unprofessional behaviour” after Mbokazi arrived late for national team camp at the University of Pretoria’s High-Performance Centre.
The defender, who is set move to the United States after the continental competition, reportedly missed his flight from Durban to Johannesburg and only joined the squad a day later.
He had been granted two days off along with other Orlando Pirates players following their Carling Knockout final victory over Marumo Gallants on Saturday.
Speaking at Bafana’s send-off event organised by sponsors Castle at FNB Stadium on Thursday, Mkhalele confirmed that Broos and Mbokazi have since “smoked the peace pipe”.
“I won’t go into details of the discussion the coach had with Mbokazi, but the issue has been resolved,” Mkhalele told the media.
“It was important for us to deal with matters like this so we can continue preparing properly.”
With the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco fast approaching, Mkhalele emphasised the significance of a strong start.
Bafana Bafana have been drawn in Group B alongside Egypt, Angola and Zimbabwe, and will open their campaign against Angola in Marrakech on 22 December.
“The players are ready, but we all know it won’t be easy,” he said.
“Winning the first game is crucial to set the tone… we will go all out against Angola because we can’t afford to lose the opening match.”
Before heading to Morocco, the South African senior national men’s team will play a friendly against Ghana at Dobsonville Stadium on Tuesday.
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