Smith ready to learn after breakthrough Bafana call-up

BAFANA Bafana defender Tylon Smith continues his steady rise, and after reaching another milestone with his maiden senior national team call-up, the youngster is eager to embrace the lessons that will come with the experience as South Africa prepare for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

- OBAKENG MELETSE

Bafana will begin their AFCON campaign with a clash against Angola at the Marrakech Grand Stadium on December 22 in Morocco.

The 20-year-old was part of the South African side that won the U20 Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year and has just returned from the U20 World Cup, a tournament that offered him valuable exposure on the global stage.

Although the senior national team is a significant step up, his inclusion — regardless of whether he features on the pitch — provides an important foundation for South Africa’s future. For Smith, simply being part of the squad represents an opportunity to grow.

Grateful for the confidence shown in him by the Belgian coach, the Queens Park Rangers defender expressed his appreciation for the chance to learn and absorb as much as possible from the tournament environment.

“I want to thank the coach for giving me an opportunity to be part of the team,” Smith said.