Diski starlets carrying SA hopes in Afcon qualifier

South Africa under-23 coach David Notoane resorted to taking some of the DStv Diski Challenge youngsters along for their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

Notoane and his under-23 squad host Togo in the Afcon second leg of the qualifiers at Orlando Stadium on Sunday.

The kick-off is at 3pm, CAT.

They are heading into this match hoping to finish off the tie and qualify for the final round of the qualifiers. In the first round, the two nations played to a 2-2 draw in Togo.

With clubs withdrawing some of their players such as Antonio Van Wyk and Aphelele Teto to mention a few, Notoane opted to replace them with Diski Challenge youngsters.

Notoane called up nine players from Diski Challenge sides including Marvin Boji, Samkelo Zwane, Oshwin Andries, Ntando Nkosi, Kgaogelo Ramushu, Omega Mdaka, Aden McCarthy, Nkosikhona Radebe and goalkeeper Sifundo Jaca.

Notoane remains upbeat and believes he has a side that can compete against the Togolese.

Talking ahead of the game Notoane said: “We will need to be more alert in defence and aggressive upfront, as we will be looking for a straight win on Sunday.

“We have had a few challenges where a few players had to be withdrawn from the squad this week. But we have called up players who are hungry and we want to achieve for the country,” added Notoane.

“The players are all in good condition, with the medical team treating a few knocks from last week’s match. But everyone is fit and ready for the next match.”

Stellenbosch assistant coach Jason Rhoda said they are happy to have youngsters who are at the level of playing for the national team and they hope to contribute more.

Stellies red hot striker Boji, who has scored eight goals in the Diski Challenge in four matches this season, is expected to lead Notoane’s attack against Togo.

The winner of this match will advance to the next round of the 2023 Afcon qualifiers in March 2023, with places still up for grabs in the Morocco tournament to be held in June next year.