Kaizer Chiefs, South Africa's iconic Glamour Boys, are used to basking in the spotlight. But as the curtains rise on the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, a familiar chill fills the Soweto air – the absence of Chiefs players on the Bafana Bafana roster.
This nine-year trophy drought isn't the only barren spell Amakhosi fans are battling. For the first time in recent memory, the Glamour Boys will have zero representation in the continental tournament. Coach Hugo Broos' 23-man squad, meticulously crafted from a 35-man shortlist, remains devoid of the gold and black.
Soccer Laduma delves deeper, shedding light on why three Chiefs players from the short list in Bruce Bvuma, Given Msimango, and Sibongiseni Mthethwa, didn't make the cut despite displaying valiant efforts. Now, they find themselves on the outside looking in:
Bruce Bvuma: Sentinel Denied Glory
Broos' vocal champion, Bvuma, once enjoyed the coach's support. A surprise absence last season, following the 4-0 drubbing by Mamelodi Sundowns, raised eyebrows. Bvuma's recent resurgence, with three consecutive clean sheets against Swallows, Polokwane City, and Richards Bay, seemed to pave the way for a Bafana return. Yet, Broos opted for SuperSport United's Ricardo Goss, leaving Bvuma to contend with the memory of his 2019 third-choice role in Egypt. Ultimately, he's lost out because Chiefs started the season with Brandon Petersen and Itumeleng Khune ahead of him in the team. So, his great efforts in the past month has come too late.
READ: Players Who've Won Trophies After Leaving Chiefs
Given Msimango: Rising Star, Stalled Momentum
Msimango's arrival at Naturena promised much, and while the 26-year-old hasn't disappointed, it hasn't been enough to catapult him into the national spotlight. His consistent stats across all competitions showcase his commitment, but the coveted AFCON ticket remains elusive. Perhaps another season of consistent growth will see Msimango knocking on Broos' door with greater insistence. After all, competition is tough in his position for Bafana, and his absence doesn't mean he's a bad player.
Sibongiseni Mthethwa: The Ox on Standby
A signing hailed as a stroke of genius, Mthethwa, affectionately known as 'Ox,' has steadily integrated into the Amakhosi midfield. His solid appearances for Stellenbosch FC and then Chiefs, showcase his tenacity, and his inclusion on the standby list acknowledges his potential. While Sphephelo Sithole, Thabang Monare, and Teboho Mokoena occupy the starting midfield berths, Mthethwa's patient dedication could see him charge onto the scene sooner rather than later.
In conclusion, the absence of Chiefs players at AFCON casts a long shadow, highlighting the club's struggle for consistent brilliance in recent years. But amid the disappointment, glimmers of hope remain. Bvuma's resurgence, Msimango's steady growth, and Mthethwa's standby status whisper of a potential Amakhosi resurgence, both on the domestic and continental fronts. The Glamour Boys may not be shining on the Ivory Coast stage this year, but their burning desire to reclaim their rightful place in the spotlight is far from extinguished.
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