Pitso Mosimane was delighted with Brooklyn Poggenpoel’s senior international debut as Bafana Bafana cruised to a 5-0 victory over Eritrea on Wednesday evening.
The midfielder was handed his first appearance at senior international level as Mosimane’s side secured another important three points, with Bafana now turning their attention towards a much tougher test against Egypt.
Poggenpoel was among the players given an opportunity by Mosimane, and the Bafana head coach was impressed by how comfortably the youngster adapted to the international stage.
“We gave Brooklyn a chance to play, for his debut and he played very well, he played like he’s been playing all the time, so we are a little bit thin against Egypt with central midfielders [after Mokoena and Aubaas injuries],” Mosimane said after the match.
Bafana have been hit by injuries in midfield, with Teboho Mokoena and Bathusi Aubaas both unavailable, while Jayden Adams is also out of contention.
Mosimane revealed that the growing list of absentees forced him to make further adjustments in midfield, including using veteran Themba Zwane in a deeper role.
“We had to bring Themba Zwane in midfield, as I wanted to take Yaya out as he’s the only experienced one left, we don’t have Teboho, no Mbatha, we lost Jayden and we don’t have Aubaas,” he added.
The situation leaves Bafana with limited options in the centre of the park ahead of their clash with Egypt, although Mosimane pointed to the depth available elsewhere in his squad.
“It’s unfortunate for us – but okay we’re loaded with wingers and full-backs.”
For Poggenpoel, meanwhile, his debut represents another significant step in what has been a rapid rise.
The young midfielder had previously endured the disappointment of missing out on South Africa’s 2026 World Cup squad before earning another opportunity under Mosimane.
His composed debut against Eritrea now gives him valuable senior international experience ahead of Bafana’s next challenge.