Sibisi agrees with Bafana coach Broos on Zambia meeting – ‘All guns will be blazing’

Bafana Bafana defender Nkosinathi Sibisi has issued a rallying call to his teammates ahead of their friendly match against Zambia.

South Africa face Chipolopolo in a pre-Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha on Saturday and are targeting a victory to maintain their unbeaten run.

Coach Hugo Broos has already said that he does not consider it a friendly match and wants his players to be competitive, warning that anyone who is complacent might not get a chance in his team in future.

What message has Sibisi sent out?

That is the same message Sibisi is sending out to his teammates, urging them to take the match seriously, as anything less could spill into the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

“I think we totally agree with the coach, there is no such thing as a friendly,” Sibisi told SAFA media.

“As soon as you wear that jersey and step onto the field, it’s war, a peaceful war. But come Saturday, all guns will be blazing.”

Zambia friendly key for AFCON selection

The Orlando Pirates defender feels this match could have an impact on who gets selected to the AFCON 2025 squad and with the stiff competition for places, there is no room to give less.

“We always train as if it’s our last session. We don’t take it for granted to be here. It’s always a privilege to represent the national team, and you have to earn your place by performing well for your club,” he added.

Sibisi has earned a return to the squad after impressing the October World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda, when he played 90 minutes in both matches, as South Africa played out a goalless draw before winning 3-0.