Why Saleng was released from Bafana Bafana

Why Saleng was released from Bafana Bafana – Revealed

Bafana Bafana have decided against recalling Monnapule Saleng following his first match in three months. Find out why.

Monnapule Saleng's future at Orlando Pirates decided

Bafana Bafana CHAN starting XI vs Egypt Image via @BafanaBafana on X

Monnapule Saleng finally managed some minutes following three months of soccer exile, featuring for Bafana Bafana in the African Nation Championship qualifier (CHAN) last Sunday.

It was on December 7 against Al Ahly when Saleng last featured for Orlando Pirates, who had since failed to make any matchday squads amid sour contract negotiations over salary demands.

Bafana Bafana, led by coach Molefi Ntseki, started the 26-year-old. Several Saleng shots threatened Egypt’s goal, but he failed to convert, and the match ended 1-1.

South Africa now heads to Egypt for the second leg on March 9.

No Saleng?

Saleng is one of four players who have been released for Bafana’s upcoming clash against the North African giants. This is usually the result of ill-discipline or a lacklustre performance—this isn’t the case here.

Instead, Ntseki is using the opportunity to rotate and test other budding stars, relieving Saleng of international duty to allow others to showcase their talents.

“Ja, Saleng is not part of the group that will be travelling to Egypt, so the players that are here will give us a very good balance and we are looking forward to giving other players a chance,” said Ntseki.

“Like anybody who was given a chance against Egypt in the first leg – and they did well, and we are very positive with what we have in camp, going to Egypt, we know they will be giving their best for their country.”