Mamelodi Sundowns senior coach Manqoba Mngqithi has hailed young Bafana Bafana star Oswin Appollis after he made his first appearance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Appollis came on in the 58th minute to replace Evidence Makgopa, with Mihlali Mayambela moving into the number nine position.
The Polokwane City winger was a breath of fresh air while many tired legs were out on the pitch. He also assisted Bafana’s best chance but Mayambela missed from a tight angle.
The 22-year-old also stepped up from the penalty spot in the shootout, helping Bafana to beat Congo 6-5 on penalties.
After the match, Mngqithi was full of praise for the youngster, saying he would’ve loved to see more of him at the tournament.
“Second half I think we made some very intelligent substitutions,” he said on SABC1.
“The Monare change was a big one, the Appollis change was a big one. For me, this boy is one for the future.
“This Appollis, I believe he could’ve done so much more for us had he had more opportunities at this tournament.
“He could’ve even had an assist in this match. It would’ve been nice to see [Jayden] Adams in this match, because I do believe that learning would’ve helped.
“We may have lost the cup but I think we could’ve learnt some lessons.”
