Thabiso Monyane Poised to Step Up as Bafana Bafana Right Back

Former Kaizer Chiefs defender Mokete Tsotetsi believes Thabiso Monyane is well positioned to fill the right back role for Bafana Bafana in the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers. With Khuliso Mudau currently sidelined at Mamelodi Sundowns due to contractual issues, and Thapelo Morena out injured, Monyane could emerge as the first-choice option for the national team.

Monyane joined Chiefs from Orlando Pirates at the end of last season and has quickly become one of the Soweto giants’ standout performers. The defender has contributed significantly to Chiefs’ perfect start in the Betway Premiership, gaining confidence with every match. His adaptation began during the club’s pre-season tour in the Netherlands, where he showed early signs of settling into his new team.

Tsotetsi highlighted Monyane’s timing and current form as key factors for national team selection. “He did not have a good season last season at Pirates and he has come to Chiefs looking fit, and I think he has come at the right time. He is doing well in the first few matches for Chiefs, and you can see that he is gaining confidence,” Tsotetsi told Soccer Laduma.

The former defender added that Monyane’s chances are boosted by the absence of other options. “With Khuliso Mudau not playing and Thapelo Morena out injured, and Van Rooyen only making his first appearance of the season recently, Monyane stands a good chance of being the first choice right back in the upcoming Bafana Bafana squad. You can see his confidence is growing game by game. He is doing well with the game time he is getting. I know coach Broos is a coach who gives players who are doing well a chance. So, I think he will be considered for the national team, and it will be good for him,” Tsotetsi said.

Monyane would have big shoes to fill, as Mudau has been a key performer for Bafana Bafana. However, his early-season form at Chiefs positions him as a strong candidate for the role. If selected, the 27-year-old could establish himself as a regular in the national setup while contributing to South Africa’s World Cup qualifying campaign against Nigeria and Lesotho.

Chiefs fans and national team followers will be watching closely as Monyane continues to build form and confidence, potentially stepping into a crucial position for Bafana Bafana.