AmaZulu FC coach Arthur Zwane says Bafana Bafana defender Siyabonga Ngezana was the “best defender” in the team when he coached Kaizer Chiefs, despite the criticism at the time.
Zwane and Ngezana worked together in the Chiefs development side prior to their time in the senior squad. The centre-back moved to Romania, at the beginning of the 2023/24 season, signing for FCSB.
He has cemented his spot as a regular for the team and has also earned a place in Hugo Broos’ Bafana Bafana squad.
Zwane says opinions were divided when he pushed Ngezana hard—some accused him of trying to ruin the player, while others claimed he was his favourite.
He added that many bashed him when he called Ngezana the best defender he had at the club.
“When I was on his case, people said I had a problem with Siya, that I wanted to destroy Siya. [People said he was one of] my favourites… but that time, Siya was the best defender at Kaizer Chiefs,” Zwane told iDiski Times.
“Nobody understood why I said that; he could deal with 1v1s. He was very strong in the air, when we had the ball he could play, pace as well, quick recoveries. People said otherwise but he was our best defender.
“But it’s fine, I always say God does things in a mysterious way. I was bashed so much for that. I said it’s okay, no problem, look at Siya today, playing in UEFA competitions.
“It’s good for South Africa and trust me, he will be in the World Cup squad because he worked hard for it. And he’s doing well, look at all these players that come from DDC level, the reserve team.
“We need to commend the PSL and Multichoice for this program, it’s been life-changing and producing so many players. It has also reduced the average [age] in the national team.
“Look at the squad that just qualified, many of them stand a good chance of even going to the next FIFA World Cup.”
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.
