POLOKWANE, SOUTH AFRICA – DECEMBER 23: Monnapule Saleng of Orlando Pirates during the DStv Premiership match between SuperSport United and Orlando Pirates at Peter Mokaba Stadium on December 23, 2023 in Polokwane, South Africa. (Photo by Philip Maeta/Gallo Images)
Orlando Pirates attacker Monnapule Saleng has started training with Bafana Bafana’s African Nations Championship (CHAN) squad for the upcoming first round qualifier against Egypt.
Saleng has not played football in over two months due to alleged ongoing disputes behind the scenes with Pirates, but has been given a chance to play competitive football in the two-legged qualifier against the Egyptians following his selection in the team.
Read: Ex-Chiefs Coach Takes Charge Of Bafana’s CHAN Qualifiers
Bafana assembled for camp in Johannesburg on Wednesday and immediately travelled to Bloemfontein to start preparing for the first of two legs against Egypt at Free State Stadium on Sunday. The second leg will be played in Egypt on March 9.
Saleng started training with the team in Bloemfontein today and a big call will have to be made on whether he is in the right condition to get some much needed minutes on the pitch.
Initially, the team was meant to be coached by Bafana Bafana assistant coach Helman Mkhalele, but the South African Football Association announced on Wednesday evening that former Kaizer Chiefs coach Molefi Ntseki has taken charge of the team and will be assisted by junior national team coach Raymond Mdaka.
The match was moved from Friday to Sunday after the Egyptians had difficulties acquiring their visas, as revealed by SAFA in a statement.
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