Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has defended his controversial decision to drop Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine from the final 23-man squad, despite his outstanding domestic form.
Chaine has been one of the best goalkeepers in the Betway Premiership this season, leading the league with 14 clean sheets in 21 matches and conceding just nine goals.
But that was not enough to secure his place.
Speaking after announcing his squad for upcoming friendlies against Panama, Broos made it clear that national team selection is not based on reputation or statistics alone.
“Everybody has to be worried when they don’t perform, and I’m not saying that Sipho is not performing,” said Broos.
“But everybody has to be worried. It’s not a charity. It’s something that is very serious.”
The Belgian coach emphasised that the national team is highly competitive, especially with the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching.
Instead of Chaine, Broos opted to include Sekhukhune United goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner, alongside captain Ronwen Williams and Ricardo Goss.
The decision appears to be part of Broos’ plan to assess new options, particularly for the third-choice goalkeeper role ahead of the World Cup opener against Mexico.
While fans have questioned the move, pointing to Chaine’s impressive statistics, Broos has consistently prioritised players who fit his tactical system.
The coach looks beyond numbers, focusing on attributes such as distribution, decision making and the ability to command the penalty area under international pressure.
The omission of Chaine has now become one of the biggest talking points ahead of Bafana Bafana’s upcoming fixtures, highlighting the tough selection calls as South Africa builds towards the World Cup.