Looking at how much of a key component Mihlali Mayambela has become for Bafana Bafana, you'd think that the player is more than confident about being in the final squad for the Africa Cup of Nations. But, like a true professional, he is not taking anything for granted.
Mayambela is well aware of the fact that life can change at any point, so he will be working tirelessly to ensure he keeps his place in the team for AFCON, set to be played in Ivory Coast from January 2024.
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Addressing the media at FNB Stadium on Thursday, ahead of the friendly international against Eswatini, Mayambela spoke openly about having to fight to get into the team, and not to rest on his laurels.
"No, honestly, there is no guarantees. You have to show it. You have to do your job in order to earn the place. Everything lies on me to perform, in order to earn the place. Not just to expect to be there, but to fight to be there because there are unbelievable players who are in my position," Mayambela said.
"I have to fight for that and compete. There's no guarantees. I don't know if I will be there or not, but I will try my best to fight for the place."
It took a while for Mayambela to finally break into the senior national team, despite spending so many years in Europe. When the chance finally came under Broos last year, his big aim was to make sure that he never loses it and it's exactly what he's managed to do.
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"For me, it's a dream that came true. It's been something that I was looking forward to and it's something that kept me going, to see myself wearing this shirt. When it finally came, it came at the right time for me personally. I got welcomed when I got here and from the first day, I felt at home and I felt safe. I am part of a team that turned into a family and that's really good. It's been amazing and hopefully it will continue like this," he said.
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