Khoza ready to seize chance after surprise Bafana call-up

MALIBONGWE Khoza didn't think it would happen so soon. But such is his determination to succeed in his career that he’s not taking any opportunity lightly — nor is he getting carried away.

- MIHLALI BALEKA

Khoza earned his maiden Bafana Bafana call-up for the two crucial 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers: against Zimbabwe at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday, and against Rwanda at Mbombela Stadium next Tuesday. Both games are scheduled for a 6pm kickoff.

While his quick integration into coach Hugo Broos’ plans was unexpected, Khoza wasn't just sitting and waiting. He was working hard.

As such, he believes that if he hadn't gone to the Chan tournament with the makeshift Bafana side under coach Molefi Ntseki earlier this winter, he wouldn't be where he is today.

“I didn’t think that it was going to come this early, but I was always motivated and working on my next (target),” Khoza revealed, during Bafana’s team arrival press conference at Dobsonville Stadium on Monday afternoon. “So, I wanted to make sure that I perform in each and every game.”

While Chan is not as glamorous or prestigious as AFCON, Khoza explained why he grabbed the opportunity with both hands when it was presented to him by Ntseki and his club, Mamelodi Sundowns.