Mbule Relishing Bafana Recall

Orlando Pirates midfielder Sipho Mbule has expressed his delight at being recalled to the Bafana Bafana national team, saying he is glad to have worked his way back into the fold. 

The 27-year-old’s return to the national team comes after a three-year absence, with his last appearance being in 2021 under the same coach, Hugo Broos. 

Mbule’s journey to the top has not been without its challenges, as he struggled to find game time at Mamelodi Sundowns, ultimately leading to his departure from the club at the end of last season.

However, since joining Pirates this season, Mbule seems to have rediscovered his form, playing seven games for the Buccaneers this season and helping the club reach the final of the MTN8 Cup. 

His impressive performances caught the attention of Broos, who initially called him to the preliminary squad, although he narrowly missed the 23-man squad. Mbule’s luck changed this week when he was called up to replace injured teammate Patrick Maswanganyi.

“I’m happy to be back in the national team,” Mbule told Pirates’ media department. 

“As you all know, it’s been a while without wearing national team colours. I’m glad to have worked my way back to the national team; now it’s for me to work again to stay here.” 

Mbule’s determination to succeed is evident in his words: “We all know how important these two games are for our country. We wanna win both games and qualify for the World Cup.”

Bafana Bafana will face Lesotho on Friday and Nigeria on Tuesday in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, and Mbule will be aiming to feature in the starting eleven or enter as a substitute. 

With vice captain Themba Zwane out injured, Mbule and Mduduzi Shabalala are the primary options for Zwane’s position, although Relebohile Mofokeng can also play it at times. 

Mbule’s experience playing with Teboho Mokoena in the midfield could be a significant advantage, as the two have played together at SuperSport United, Sundowns, and various youth national teams.