Bafana Bafana head coach Pitso Mosimane says his four-year vision for the national soccer side was to prepare and build a strong, competitive and respectable team for the country in preparation for 2012 and 2014.
Mosimane says his short term goal was to take Bafana to the 2012 African Cup of Nations that will be co-hosted by Gabon and Equatorial Guinea. "I am not scared. We should be there and I believe that if we can keep our World Cup momentum on the field like we played against Mexico and France, we will win this tournament."
Mosimane outlined some of the steps for achieving his 2014 vision such as scouting and monitoring of local and international players. He cited Siphiwe Tshabalala, who was called up to the national team while still playing in the First Division. "We need to look into avenues like that for special players in the lower leagues," he said.
He recommended that strictly under 23 players should be utilised for Council of Southern Africa Football Association (COSAFA) games to gain international experience. He further believes that PSL teams should utilise a maximum of three foreign players and at least two under 23 players to be in the stating-line-up of all matches in South Africa.
The coach said the interaction with PSL coaches to discuss CAF/FIFA dates and player availability for the national team was also important in achieving the team's vision. He applauded the PSL for accommodating Bafana Bafana's programme in their League's calendar, adding that he would continue engaging the PSL and other football stakeholders.
SAFA President, Kirsten Nematandani, said Mosimane will get all the support from the association.
"We will give you all the support you need as we are committed to make a difference in the football fraternity in this country."
Mosimane's first test will be on 11 August, when the national team takes on the Black Stars of Ghana in a friendly at Soccer City. - BuaNews
