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.