Bafana Bafana: Siyabonga Ngezana Needs Time To Shine, Says Benson Mhlongo

• Ex-Bafana Bafana ace Benson Mhlongo believes Siyabonga Ngezana must mature before becoming a consistent national team player.
• The 27-year-old defender, currently based in Romania, conceded a penalty during Bafana’s thrilling 3-2 win over South Sudan on September 10, 2024.
• South African football fans chimed in on social media, agreeing with Mhlongo while others defended Ngezana’s potential to bounce back.

Siyabonga Ngezana, the Bafana Bafana defender, has been put under the spotlight by none other than Benson Mhlongo, a legendary figure in South African football. Mhlongo didn’t mince words when he stated that the 27-year-old isn’t quite ready for the pressures of international football just yet. This assessment comes after Ngezana’s performance in the recent Afcon qualifier against South Sudan, where he found himself at the center of controversy after conceding an early penalty and picking up a booking. Let’s dive deeper into the conversation surrounding this rising talent.

In a match that saw Bafana Bafana triumph with a last-minute goal, Ngezana’s struggles were evident. While the team ultimately secured victory, the defender faced criticism for his performance, particularly for being outpaced on South Sudan’s second goal. For a player who’s making waves in Romania with FCSB, this setback raises questions about his readiness for the global stage.

Time and Experience: The Keys to Ngezana’s Growth

Benson Mhlongo took to Twitter to share his thoughts on Ngezana’s current standing in the national team. In a candid statement, he highlighted the areas where the young defender needs improvement. Despite being a regular starter for FCSB in Romania, Mhlongo insists that Ngezana has a long way to go when it comes to adapting to the demands of international football.

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According to The Citizen, Mhlongo pointed out that Ngezana still carries over some of the habits that hindered his game during his time at Kaizer Chiefs. Specifically, the tendency to commit fouls under pressure is a recurring issue. At the international level, where the competition is fierce and the stakes are high, such mistakes can cost a team dearly. Mhlongo elaborated:

“He still has the old habits that he picked up at Chiefs, where he commits fouls. Internationally, if you make a mistake like that, you’re going to get punished because you’re playing against the best players in the world.”

Fans Weigh In: Mixed Reactions on Social Media

The debate surrounding Ngezana’s performance quickly spilled over onto social media, where local football fans shared their thoughts. While many agreed with Mhlongo’s assessment, others chose to focus on the positive aspects of the defender’s game and urged him to use the criticism constructively.

Sinothi P Mthembu echoed Mhlongo’s sentiments:

“That’s exactly what most of us saw, legend Mhlongo. You hit the nail on the head.”

B-Something Kerjean Mpongo reminded everyone that this isn’t the first time Ngezana has faced scrutiny:

“Doctor Khumalo made similar comments about Ngezana before. He acknowledged his talent but stressed the importance of working on his emotions and timing.”

Not everyone was critical, though. Mphe Bophelo expressed surprise at Ngezana’s move to Europe:

“True, I was really shocked as a Chiefs fan when he left for overseas. Maybe it was too soon.”

Sifundo Nontlanga emphasized the importance of accepting feedback:

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“Ngezana should take this advice to heart. Every great player has faced criticism at some point. Use it as motivation to grow stronger.”

Chiwara Million summed it up succinctly:

“Correct. There’s no denying the areas he needs to improve on.”

Transfer Rumors: A Bafana Star Could Switch PSL Clubs

As the PSL transfer window approaches its deadline, rumors are swirling around another Bafana Bafana player who might be on the move. Kaizer Chiefs are reportedly keen to sign Polokwane City star Oswin Appollis, adding another layer of intrigue to the domestic football scene. While Polokwane executives await an official offer, Chiefs management has confirmed they’ve initiated discussions with the club.

This potential transfer could reshape the landscape of South African football, bringing a promising talent to one of the country’s most prestigious teams. With both clubs keeping their cards close to their chests, fans will have to wait and see if the deal materializes before the transfer window closes.