Baloyi blasts PSL clubs for neglecting local goalkeeper talent

FORMER Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Brian Baloyi has voiced serious concerns over the ongoing shortage of locally based goalkeeping talent in South Africa’s top flight, warning that the lack of exposure for upcoming goalkeepers could pose a long-term problem for the national team.

- OBAKENG MELETSE

South Africa has traditionally been well stocked in the goalkeeping department, with current Bafana Bafana number one Ronwen Williams regarded as one of the best talents in recent times and widely considered among the continent's top shot-stoppers.

However, despite his presence and the other experienced performers in the Betway Premiership, Baloyi believes the bigger issue lies beneath the surface — the absence of young local goalkeepers coming through the ranks.

This season, approximately SO per cent of goalkeepers who have seen regular action in the Betway Premiership are foreign nationals, a statistic Baloyi describes as worrying.

The concern is heightened by the fact that South Africa’s leading goalkeepers — Williams (33), Sipho Chaine (29), and Ricardo Goss (31), who are expected to be in contention for the 2026 World Cup — are either approaching 30 or already beyond that mark.