Bafana skipper Ronwen Williams backs injury hit squad replacements to do the job

Ronwen Williams. Photo: Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix

Bafana Bafana skipper, Ronwen Williams has backed the seven injury hit squad’s replacements to do the job in the international friendly against Mozambique at Mbhombela Stadium tonight.

Ronwen Williams is captaining a Bafana team that has lost defenders Innocent Maela and Nkosinathi Sibisi, midfielder Siphesihle Sithole and striker Mihali Mayambela to injuries.  Adding to the injury woes that have rocked the Hugo Broos coached national team, are Thibang Phete and Striker Lyle Foster.

This is a massive blow for a team that is already missing Al Ahly and Bafana Bafana star Percy Tau who is slowly working his way back to fitness in Egypt after a long injury lay off.

Speaking just hours before tonight’s kick off, Williams remained confident that he can still captain Bafana Bafana to victory against The Mambas of Mozambique.

“The mood in the camp has been good. We are happy now that we have a full squad. It has taken some time for some players to get here. The new players that have come in have gelled really well and there has been a camaraderie among the players. These are serious games that we will use for March,” said Williams.

Mozambique are also not at full strength after arriving without Al Ahly star, attacking midfielder Luis Miquissone, who is on loan to Saudi club Abha. The Mambas are also missing Kaizer Chiefs defense stalwart Edmilson Dove, and the ageless Pelembe of Royal AM, who is still part of the Mozambique national team plans at an incredible 39 years old.

Mozambique coach Chiquinho Conde has opted to only call up local based players for this tie, as part of preparations for the CHAN tournament, that kicks off in early January in Algeria.  Still, The Mambas are coming off the back of a moral boosting, unbeaten four match running streak heading into the clash.

Injury hit Bafana Bafana are also riding the crest of a wave. They will be on the hunt for a third consecutive victory tonight.

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Ronwen Williams. Photo: Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix
Ronwen Williams. Photo: Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix