01 June 2010

The IFP-aligned South African Democratic Students' Movement (SADESMO) has warmly welcomed the announcement of the 23-man Bafana Bafana squad today.

SADESMO National Spokesperson Mkhuleko "Leko" Hlengwa said: "We welcome the announcement of the squad, which in our view is very balanced and ready to take on the world. The progress made by the boys thus far has been encouraging and we are adamant that the final 23 will do our nation proud. We are of the view that the coach and his technical team made the right choices and from here onwards there is no looking back."

There were of course interesting revelations, particularly the exclusion of Benni McCarthy.

Hlengwa noted: "The exclusion of Benni sends a strong message to future stars of the game that pride and arrogance do not pay. Over the years, South Africa has consistently found itself at the mercy of Benni, who owing to his success has seen himself to be superior to the game and the nation. One cannot deny that Benni has contributed positively towards South African football and for that the nation is grateful - but we all ought to learn that the nation comes first and unfortunately that is a lesson Benni arrogantly saw unnecessary to learn and now he is learning it the hard way."

The announcement also meant that some players had to be dropped due to FIFA rules and regulations. Hlengwa added: "We wish to thank Bryce Moon, Innocent Mdledle, Rowen Fernandez and Franklin Cale for their admirable selflessness and patriotic commitment to the nation; they have done all of us proud.

Siyathokoza kakhulu kubo, impela bangamadoda emadodeni."

The focus now rests on the final 23 who need the fullest of support from all South Africans.

Hlengwa said in conclusion: "We wish Bafana Bafana all the best during the World Cup. We offer them our unwavering support. 48 million South Africans of all walks of life are behind Bafana Bafana and collectively we are indeed a proud 12th player of the squad. Bafana Bafana go out there and show the world what we are really made of! Ngoba ukuphumelela kwenu koba yinzuzo nefa laphakade kwi-Ningizimu Afrika. Nithwele amathemba ezwe lonke, nisenze siziqhenye ngani. Amasango ezulu avulekile, phezu komkhono."

For further information, kindly contact:

MKHULEKO "LEKO" HLENGWA

SADESMO National Spokesperson

0838712711 / 0731667904