Kaizer Chiefs mentor, Molefi Ntseki, recently addressed the media in the lead-up to their DStv Premiership clash against Royal AM.
During his press conference, Ntseki confronted the controversy sparked by Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos’s statements about Chiefs players.
Broos had expressed doubt about the quality of players from Chiefs that he could include in the national team’s squad for matches against Namibia and DR Congo.
Ntseki’s Unconcerned Stance
Ntseki’s response to Broos’s comments was marked by a surprising lack of concern.
He essentially shrugged off Broos’s reservations, stating that if Broos believed he couldn’t utilize Chiefs players, it was acceptable to him.
This response was an unexpected twist in the relationship between the two coaches, given Broos’s initial criticism.
Ntseki’s Congratulations and Support
In a remarkable turn of events, Ntseki extended his congratulations to Bafana Bafana for successfully qualifying for the 2023 CAF African Cup of Nations tournament in Cote d’Ivoire.
He acknowledged the significance of their victory over a strong team like DRC, highlighting that DRC held a higher FIFA ranking than Bafana.
Additionally, Ntseki expressed joy at seeing a top-quality player from Chiefs being selected for the national team.
He emphasized the importance of supporting the national team and wished Hugo Broos well for the upcoming Afcon tournament.
Chiefs Player’s National Team Call-Up
Interestingly, despite Broos’s initial skepticism, Chiefs midfielder Pule Mmodi received a call-up to the national team following the exclusion of Mamelodi Sundowns skipper Themba Zwane from the squad.
Ntseki’s Approach to Selection
Ntseki demonstrated his diplomatic approach to player selection, indicating that he would respect club coaches while managing the national team.
He explained that player selection should be based on factors such as the coach’s tactical approach, the player’s abilities, and the desired style of play.
Ntseki also noted the absence of a clear template for selecting players for the national team, suggesting that this lack of guidance may have contributed to the initial disagreement with Broos.
In summary, Molefi Ntseki’s response to Hugo Broos’s criticism of Chiefs players reveals a reconciliatory and supportive stance.
Ntseki’s emphasis on collaboration and respect among coaches, as well as his commitment to fostering talent for the national team, underscores the broader goal of strengthening South African football.
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