Senong names U20 squad for World Cup
Amajita coach Thabo Senong has named the 21-man squad that will represent South Africa at the 2017 FIFA U20 World Cup.
Thabo Senong, coach of the Amajita (Samuel Shivambu/BackpagePix)
The tournament takes place from May 20 to June 11 in South Korea.
Senong has kept the bulk of the squad that went to the Caf U20 Africa Cup of Nations in Zambia where South Africa finished fourth earlier this year.
Only four players of the 21-man squad were not at the tournament – defenders Malebogo Modise and Shane Saralina as well as midfielders Thabo Cele and Masilake Phohlongo.
“We are humbled to represent our country in the greatest showpiece in the world. We wish to thank the clubs for releasing players in the preparation phase. I believe we have selected a balanced team of players that suit our game model and philosophy. Competing in the World Cup event will be demanding physically and mentally,” said Senong.
“Our players possess good technique with an excellent tactical application. We are drawn against tough teams in our group. With good team ethics and hard work, I believe that we can surprise our opponents. I have great faith in this group of players that we can really make this a memorable World Cup tournament.”
Amajita squad:
GOALKEEPERS: Sanele Tshabalala (Bidvest Wits FC), Mondli Mpoto (SuperSport United), Khulekani Kubheka (Mamelodi Sundowns)
DEFENDERS: Malebogo Modise (Mamelodi Sundowns), Thendo Mukumela (Mamelodi Sundowns), Tercious Malepe (Orlando Pirates), Shane Saralina (Ajax Cape Town), Sandile Mthethwa (Orlando Pirates), Reeve Frosler (Bidvest Wits)
MIDFIELDERS: Sipho Mbule (SuperSport United), Wiseman Meyiwa (Kaizer Chiefs), Sibongakonke Mbatha (Bidvest Wits), Kobamelo Kodisang (Platinum Stars), Luther Singh (Sporting Braga – Portugal), Grant Margeman (Ajax Cape Town), Thabo Cele (Benfica FC -Portugal), Teboho Mokoena (SuperSport United), Masilakhe Phohlongo (Ajax Cape Town)
STRIKERS: Phakamani Mahlambi (Bidvest Wits), Liam Jordan (Sporting Lisbon – Portugal), Keletso Makgalwa (Mamelodi Sundowns)
SA u20 World Cup fixtures:
vs Japan
Sunday, May 21
5pm (10am SA Time)
Suwon World Cup Stadium
vs Italy
Wednesday, May 24
8pm (1pm SA Time)
Suwon World Cup Stadium
vs Uruguay
Saturday, May 27
8pm (1pm SA Time)
Incheon World Cup Stadium
