By: Lucky Khanyile

In his attempt to defend Bafana Bafana coach Ephraim Shakes Mashaba, South African Schools Football Association (SASFA) president, Mandla Mazibuko has
backed him and his selection criteria.

The former South African Football Association (SAFA) vice-president revealed this to Journalismiziko after Mashaba received criticism on his selection from the likes of
Lucas Radebe.

“There is no pressure, Shakes [Mashaba] and his technical team are people who stay and listen to other peoples’ opinions.

It is overwhelming to see that they [Mashaba and his technical staff] listen and we see those players that people have been calling for included in the squad,” said Mazibuko.

Former Bafana Bafana captain Radebe questioned Mashaba’s selection criteria stating that it should be about class and consistency. Radebe is aware that Mashaba is

building for 2018 and 2022 world cups but expressed his desire in progress in terms of selection and results.

“We need consistency. [Whether] Shakes’ plan will sustain us in the long-term goal, we don’t know,” said Radebe.

However, Mazibuko is confident that the former Swaziland national team coach will deliver.

He is not a stubborn coach. If he has to call a player he does and does not try to push an agenda that we don’t know.

This is a step in the right direction for the national team, I congratulate him,” Mazibuko added.

Bafana Bafana will be completing their Central American tour on Tuesday when they lock horns with Honduras.