Pieterse was somehow at fault for both goals in Bafana’s 3-2 win over Botswana in the Cosafa Cup final at the Sam Nujoma Stadium on Saturday.
He was caught off his line for the first goal and then he let the ball go through his fingers for Botswana’s equaliser.
His poor showing led to him being ridiculed by some fans on social media, but Khune has come out in defence of his former Kaizer Chiefs teammate.
“Guys let’s not discourage @rpieterse01 but motivate him to grow as keeper. He’s one of the best young GK’S we have in our country,” wrote Khune on his Twitter account.