Despite his age not helping, SA winger Mahlatse ‘Skudu’ Makudubela has revealed how FCSB star Siyabonga Ngezana inspires him to keep the Bafana Bafana dream alive.

Like Ngezana, the 34-year-old former Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns striker has secured a move abroad ahead of the 2023/24 season.

Former Kaizer Chiefs defender Ngezana left for Romania after parting ways with Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs. On the other hand, Makudubela signed a one-year contract with Tanzanian giants Young Africans SC, which expired on June 30. This was after parting ways with Marumo Gallants, who were relegated from the DStv Premiership.

Ngezana finally got a call-up from Bafana Bafana in 2024. The last time he was part of the squad was in 2018, when Stuart Baxter was the coach.

Visa issues prevented him from taking part in the FIFA Series against Andorra and Algeria in March. The 26-year-old was then available for selection for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Nigeria and Zimbabwe in June. He started both games and put in a great performance.

MAHLATSE MAKUDUBELA ON SIYABONGA NGEZANA

Mahlatse Makudubela says he has to work extra hard, just like Siyabonga Ngezana, then he will eventually be called up to Bafana.

Makudubela further praised coach Hugo Broos and co. for the great work they do within the national team.

“Yes (I am thinking of a call-up for Bafana), I had a conversation with Siyabonga Ngezana; he has left the country,” Makudubela said SNAWA.

“He had a hard time when he arrived in Romania, but then he got into his stride and everything changed, and now he plays for the national team.

“They say, ‘If you hang around in the barbershop long enough, you’ll get your hair cut soon.’ I still have to give that little push to be recognized there, so it’s a process.”

“With all due respect to the players who are playing, very very exceptional players, they are doing well for the country. Also a shoutout to coach (Hugo) Broos, he is doing well, their recruitment team is also doing their job.”

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