Renaldo Leaner has welcomed his call-up to the Bafana Bafana squad with quiet
confidence, saying he has always been ready for the opportunity.
The Sekhukhune United shot-stopper has been included in the squad set to face the
Panama national football team in a two-leg international friendly. The first match will be
played at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday, before the sides meet again at Cape
Town Stadium next Tuesday.
Leaner’s selection has sparked debate, given his inconsistent game time this season.
The former Ajax Cape Town Academy graduate has started just 13 matches, despite
being included in the Babina Noko squad 17 times.
Many had expected Sipho Chaine to remain second choice behind captain Ronwen
Williams. However, head coach Hugo Broos opted to give Leaner the nod.
For the 28-year-old, the call-up is less about surprise and more about readiness aligning
with opportunity.
Renaldo Leaner says his inclusion in the Bafana Bafana squad did not come as a
surprise, emphasising that he has always maintained a state of readiness.
Speaking in Pretoria on Monday, Leaner noted that being named in the preliminary
squad of five goalkeepers requires constant preparedness.
“I don’t feel like I was surprised. When you’re part of the preliminary squad, you always
have to be ready,” he said.
The Sekhukhune United goalkeeper explained that doubting selection chances could
leave players unprepared when opportunities arise.
“If you think you won’t make the final squad and then you get a chance, you won’t be
ready. So, I was always ready,” he added.
Leaner’s composed mindset reflects his understanding of the demands at international
level, where opportunities are limited and preparation is crucial.
His confidence is also backed by solid club form, having recorded eight clean sheets in
13 league appearances while conceding just six goals — a run of performances that
has strengthened his case for national selection.
