Siyanda Ndlovu has revealed how his experience at Mamelodi Sundowns has helped prepare him for the demands of international football with Bafana Bafana.
The forward received his maiden national team call-up as South Africa gears up for back-to-back AFCON qualifiers against Kenya.
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‘Skhwishi’ is the only fresh face in the squad after earning a surprise inclusion despite being left out of the preliminary team.
Ndlovu believes competing in high-intensity tournaments such as the FIFA African-Asian Pacific Cup and CAF Super Cup has played a major role in preparing him for bigger challenges in a short period.
“I think those games were very important because the experience we get there is massive,” said Ndlovu.
“So, for me as a young player, still growing up, it helps a lot when this kind of opportunity [to represent the national team] comes, to be able to play along with my teammates here because their experience is on another level.”
He also expressed his delight at finally getting the opportunity after working hard and waiting patiently for his chance.
“I think I’m very happy because when you’re a player, one of the main goals is representing the national team,” he added.
“I would like to thank coach Pitso Mosimane to give me a chance because I’ve been working hard to get it.”