Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has challenged Orlando Pirates defender Nkosinathi Sibisi to earn back his place at club level or risk being omitted from the national team.
Sibisi (28) has consistently featured in the Bafana setup under Broos’ tutelage and was part of the bronze-winning team in the Africa Cup of Nations in February.
He was named in the 23-man squad that will face Nigeria and Zimbabwe in two important FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
The tough-tackling defender had been a key cog in the Buccaneers’ backline at the beginning of the season before center-back Olisa Ndah returned from injury.
He was then relegated to the bench and only started in four domestic matches following his return from the AFCON.
Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has preferred to use the technically astute Thabiso Sesane and Ndah, while Tapelo Xoki has been dealing with injury and suspension.
Broos hailed Sibisi’s mentality but warned his place is under threat if he continues to warm the bench at Pirates.
“Sibisi played a few times (for Pirates), he didn’t play as much, but ok, he has been with us since the beginning.
“He is a good guy with a good mentality, and every time I need him he is there. But he knows and I know that if this is still going on next season, I may have to make the decision not to take him anymore.”
Following the withdrawal of Grant Kekana due to injury, Bafana’s other center-back options include Mothobi Mvala, Given Msimango, and Siyabonga Ngezana.
Bafana will depart for Uyo, Nigeria, on Wednesday.
