Phuti Mohafe makes bold statement on Thabang Matuludi

The 26-year-old defender has earned his first national team call-up under coach Hugo Broos for this month’s FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.

Mohafe regards the Rise and Shine full-back as the second-best right-back in the country, expressing his belief that Matuludi can push Mudau for a starting place at international level.

"I think Mudau is three or four years older than Matuludi, and he's a good competitor, and I think he will also give Mudau the best run for his money," said Mohafe.

"So I've always reiterated that Matuludi is the second-best right-back we have in the country, and I will not mention after who he is coming.

"I'm just saying that I believe he's the second-best right-back we have, that the country has ever produced."

READ: Broos explains Mdu Shabalala option to replace Rele Mofokeng

Mohafe also feels Matuludi is ready to be the first-choice option for Broos at the Africa Cup of Nations finals in December, if selected. 

"He can challenge that spot, and he is challenging it. I wouldn't be surprised if he can be the number-one in the competition that we are going to play," he added.

"If he can be given a chance in the coming matches, I think he will be the number one. That is what I like about Coach Broos because he's giving everyone who's performing the nod to go and represent their national team.

"So those days are gone and dusted [of players owning the Bafana jersey], it's giving everyone a chance to represent his country, so I think they are doing a great job at giving [so many players] an opportunity."