Former Bafana Bafana midfield maestro Doctor Khumalo has welcomed the return of wing duo Thapelo Maseko and Bongokuhle Hlongwane who he believes have earned their places.
Maseko is currently on loan in the Cyprus first division with AEL Limassol after struggling for game time at Mamelodi Sundowns this season. The attacker has two goals across all competitions at his new side since joining them in January.
The last time he was with the senior national team was in February 2024 and now finds himself in contention for selection of the World Cup as he’s been included in the side to face Panama twice this month in friendlies.
Khumalo says Maseko has been through a lot and needs to be applauded for working hard enough to return to the squad.
“Well done to the boy,” said Khumalo on the DNA Podcast.
“That’s another player we need to applaud because he went through a lot. You know there’s too much competition at Sundowns he ended up losing his position.
“And I think the move helped the situation. What a good player.”
As far as the 25-year-old Hlongwane is concerned, the former Bafana international says he’s been following the Minnesota United man, and he too has earned his call-up since 2023.
“Bongi, at long last, it’s been a while,” added 16V.
“How long has the boy been doing well and scoring in the US and not getting a call-up. He deserves it he plays well I mean I follow the MLS.”
Did you know that the iDiski Times Digital Newspaper is completely free! Download it now by clicking the button below or fill in the form to have it sent to you every week.
