Former Orlando Pirates captain, Lkwati Legkwati, believes that the Bafana national team could benefit from strengthening the existing defensive duo between Lebone Sibema and Nkosinathi Sibisi at the international level.
These two players trained together as part of Orlando Pirates before the Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifiers. Legkwati urged head coach Pitso Mosimane to utilize the understanding they developed at the club level.
Sibema was included in the final squad of the Bafana national team for the upcoming international window, gaining recognition after a consistent second season with the Pirates. Sibisi has established himself as one of the experienced defenders in the national team, giving Mosimane the opportunity to consider playing these two players, who are already well acquainted due to their joint work at the club.
Legkwati believes that this closeness could prove valuable for Bafana. He noted: 'Unfortunately, coach Hugo did not select him and Sibisi when he was still here, but such a combination and connection is something Bafana can work on.'
Sibema's call-up was widely anticipated, as the 23-year-old player was named Defender of the Year following his performances for the Pirates. Legkwati considers this call-up a deserved reward for the defender's consistency since joining the Buccaneers.
He added: 'Of course, it is a deserved call-up for Sibema; he is the current Defender of the Year, so some might say it has been long overdue because he is very stable for someone only in their second season at Pirates.'
For Mosimane, this international window presents an opportunity to assess available defensive options as he begins his second term as Bafana's leader. The coach has assembled a squad combining experienced international players and younger footballers, among whom Sibema hopes to establish himself in the national team.
Bafana will begin its campaign for the Africa Cup of Nations 2027 against Guinea at Orlando Stadium on September 26, followed by a trip to Egypt to play Eritrea on September 30. After this, the team will face Egypt in a friendly match on October 4. With three scheduled matches, Mosimane will be able to test various lineups, including the possibility that the existing understanding between Sibema and Sibisi at Pirates can translate to the international arena.