Igesund names strong squad for Spain clash

Igesund made good on his promise to name the strongest possible side for the tie with the European and World champions, having included nine foreign-based players, including Dean Furman (Doncaster Rovers, England), Kagisho Dikgacoi (Crystal Palace, England) and Tokelo Rantie (Bournemouth FC, England) as part of the squad.

Igesund also recalled goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune, who would be rested for Bafana’s friendly encounter with Swaziland, four days before the Spanish meeting.

“For us as a team, it’s a great opportunity to see where we are,” Igesund said at the SA Football Association headquarters, in Johannesburg on Thursday.

“I’m very excited to be able to announce this squad.

“It’s games like these (against Spain) that bring a country on in great strides.”

SA Squad: Goalkeepers: Itumeleng Khune, Senzo Meyiwa. Defenders: Thabo Nthete, Bongani Khumalo, Buhle Mkhwanazi, Siyanda Xulu, Anele Ngcongca, Tsepo Masilela, Thabo Matlaba. Midfielders: Dean Furman, Kagisho Dikgacoi, Andile Jali, Daylon Claasen, Kamohelo Mokotjo, Bongani Zungu, Oupa Manyisa, Ayanda Patosi, Lerato Chabangu, Siphiwe Tshabalala, Sibusiso Vilakazi. Strikers: Bernard Parker, Tokelo Rantie, Kermit Erasmus.

– Sapa