Percy Tau defends his Bafana future: 'I still have more to offer'

The 31-year-old has not featured for Bafana since the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March, following a challenging period that saw him struggle for game time at Al Ahly before a brief stint with Qatar SC. In Qatar, Tau made nine league appearances, providing two assists but failing to register a goal.

Speaking to Robert Marawa on #MSWon947, the former Mamelodi Sundowns and Brighton & Hove Albion attacker acknowledged recent questions around his form, but urged for a more balanced approach to national team selection - one that values both experience and youth.

"I still feel that I can contribute to the country," Tau said. "Yes, there are performances that raise doubts or questions, but that doesn't make you a bad player. That doesn't change who I am."

Tau highlighted what he believes is an unhealthy tendency to discard experienced players too quickly when they hit a rough patch, emphasizing the importance of maintaining continuity and support.

"Football is a game of phases - you'll have your lows and your highs. But do we kick a player out during their lows? I don't think that should be the approach. We must understand what it means to play for the national team."

With a growing pool of young talent emerging across South Africa's domestic and international leagues, competition for places in Hugo Broos' squad is intensifying. But Tau warned against leaning too heavily on youth at the expense of seasoned professionals.

"Do you only want the younger ones in the national team? What about the others? I believe it has to be balanced. Experience counts too," he added. "And by the way, I'm still only 31-the coaches make it seem like I'm 38."

Tau's comments come as Bafana Bafana prepare for crucial fixtures later this year, with fans and analysts alike debating who should be part of the core squad heading into AFCON and World Cup qualifiers. Whether Tau earns a recall remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: he's not ready to close the book on his international career just yet.