Former Kaizer Chiefs icon Joseph “Banks” Setlhodi has shared his thoughts on the ongoing debate surrounding Brandon Petersen’s absence from the Bafana Bafana setup.
Petersen has been one of the standout performers in the Betway Premiership this season, delivering eight clean sheets in 14 matches across all competitions. His seven shutouts in the league are the most by any goalkeeper so far, a run of form that has also seen him take over the Chiefs captaincy after initially being third in the leadership hierarchy behind Zitha Kwinika and Inacio Miguel.
Despite this, the 31-year-old has not been able to convince national team coach Hugo Broos or goalkeeper coach Grant Johnson. Petersen was again overlooked for the latest Bafana squad, not even making the provisional list for the friendly against Zambia. Instead, Renaldo Leaner of Sekhukhune United and AmaZulu’s Darren Johnson were included.
Broos continues to rely on established number one Ronwen Williams, with Sipho Chaine and Ricardo Goss providing backup.
Speaking to FARPost, Setlhodi said the decision ultimately rests on the coach’s preferences.
“It’s a tricky situation because it all depends on Hugo Broos,” he said. “Petersen is in top form, no doubt, but the coach will argue that the players he’s selecting are doing the job for him. Why change something that’s working?”
Setlhodi acknowledged that many feel Petersen deserves a call-up but urged the goalkeeper to stay focused.
“It’s clear Petersen is doing well for Chiefs. He must keep working hard and not lose hope. Hard work pays off, and there’s still plenty of football to be played.”
farpost