Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has confirmed that Bongokuhle Hlongwane and Mbekezeli Mbokazi will not feature in Friday’s international friendly against the Panama national football team at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Broos clarified that both players are not injured, but are being rested as a precaution following a demanding long-haul trip from the United States. The coach cited fatigue and the seven-hour time difference as key factors behind the decision.
He explained that allowing the duo more time to recover will ensure they are fully fit for upcoming matches, including the second fixture scheduled to take place in Cape Town next Tuesday.
“I’m confident we are ready for the game, and we’ll see what happens. The only thing I can say about the team is that Hlongwane and Mbokazi will not play,” said Broos.
“This is not tactical or because they are sick or injured, it’s just a question of the trip they made from America to here, and also the jet lag – seven hours’ difference, so those guys need a little bit more time to recover, but they will certainly be there for the second game.”
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