Pitso Mosimane Responds to Claims of Favouring Mamelodi Sundowns Players in Bafana Selection

Pitso Mosimane has dismissed suggestions that his previous association with Mamelodi Sundowns influences his decisions when selecting players for the Bafana Bafana national team.

Mosimane has a long history with the Tshwane-based club, having served as head coach between 2012 and 2020. During his successful spell at Chloorkop, he guided Sundowns to several major honours, including the CAF Champions League title and five league championships.

Some of the players he previously worked with at Sundowns, including Themba Zwane and Thapelo Morena, remain part of the national team selection picture. This has prompted questions about whether his close relationship with the club gives its players an advantage when he puts together his Bafana squad.

However, Mosimane has rejected the accusations, insisting that his selections are guided by performances, statistics and factual information rather than personal relationships or past associations.

Speaking to SABC Sport, the coach acknowledged that selecting players for the national team comes with considerable pressure, particularly because some supporters believe coaches make decisions based on friendships or favouritism.

He explained that people sometimes assume he prefers Sundowns players simply because of his successful coaching history with the club.

Mosimane maintained that everyone is entitled to their opinion but stressed that he makes decisions based on evidence and takes full responsibility for the players he selects.

The debate has gained further attention ahead of Bafana Bafana's AFCON qualifying encounter against Kenya, with Mamelodi Sundowns reportedly contributing 12 players to the national team squad.

Despite the criticism, Mosimane remains firm in his position that national team selection should be determined by footballing facts and individual performances rather than club loyalties.

Link:https://www.idiskitimes.co.za/bafana-bafana/pitso-addresses-sundowns-favouritism-claims/