Masindi Nemtajela reacts to maiden Bafana call-up | OneFootball

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Nemtajela on first Bafana call-up

Photo: Masindi Nemtajela

Orlando Pirates midfielder Masindi Nemtajela has reacted to his maiden Bafana Bafana call-up ahead of the international friendly match against Zambia.

Hugo Broos' men will host Chipolopolo at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Saturday, 15 November, and the Belgian mentor included two new faces in Nemtajela and Keletso Makgalwa.

Reflecting on his football journey and the call-up, the 24-year-old, who was playing on gravel pitches in 2022, expressed immense gratitude for the progress he has made up to date.

“I am really grateful for what's happening to me since I started playing football. My journey was not easy, I started at Mahlobo [games] as you mentioned, playing on gravel,” said Nemtajela.

"But things happened fast for me. I was playing in NFD, the following season I was playing in the PSL then the second season [in the topflight] I was signed by Pirates and after some months and about six games my name is called to the national team.

He continued: "So, I am really grateful, it shows the hard work I put in training is paying off.

Nemtajela also opened up on his desire to represent the national team at the upcoming global showpiece set to be co-hosted by the USA, Mexico and Canada.

“I thank coach Hugo Broos for the opportunity he gave us. I would like to see myself fighting for the nation at the World Cup. The coach gave us an opportunity, it's now up to us, we got the chance,” added the former Marumo Gallants star.