Pitso: Some of you don't know this...
by Siya Ndlela · KickOffBafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane remains firm and unapologetic regarding his choice to include Mamelodi Sundowns forward Cassius Mailula in his latest national squad.
Speaking at Bafana Bafana's press conference at the University of Johannesburg on Monday afternoon, Mosimane backed the 25-year-old forward, whom he previously worked with during their shared time at Chloorkop under the Sundowns setup.
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How Mailula earned Bafana Bafana recall
Mailula silenced doubters by racking up four goals in 11 appearances across all competitions this season since sealing his high-profile return to Chloorkop.
His form has earned him a hard-fought recall following a lengthy three-year absence from the senior national team setup.
Addressing mounting questions surrounding the attacker’s readiness, the experienced mentor said Mailula’s form speaks for itself.
"I have always used young players. I used Daine Klate when he was 17. Cassius [Mailula] was with me in pre-season when he was 16, right? And probably some of you don’t know this,” Mosimane told reporters at the UJ grounds in Auckland Park.
"I have seen what I have seen, you know? So, it’s not for me to justify that Cassius must be here. He’s doing it week in and week out, right?
"I’m happy, you know; I’m not surprised why he’s here because the boy is playing well, scoring, and helping Mamelodi Sundowns at the highest level," he added.
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Mailula's time with Bafana so far
Mailula initially burst onto the international scene under former mentor Hugo Broos, making his senior international debut back on 24 March 2023 against Liberia, before a tough stint abroad saw him slip out of national team reckoning.
He will be hoping to be handed another chance when Bafana take on Guinea at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday.