Brandon Petersen: Mamelodi Sundowns Legend Backs Kaizer Chiefs Star for World Cup Call

Brandon Petersen: Mamelodi Sundowns Legend Backs Kaizer Chiefs Star for World Cup Call

  • Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Brando Petersen has got more back concerning being named in the Bafana Bafana squad for the World Cup
  • The Glamour Boys captain has been one of the best players in the Betway Premiership this season especially in his position
  • A former Mamelodi Sundowns star has thrown his support behind Petersen to be included in the World Cup squad

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Former Mamelodi Sundowns defender Matthew Booth has thrown his support behind Brandon Petersen, backing the Kaizer Chiefs shot-stopper for inclusion in the Bafana Bafana squad ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup.

Petersen recently made his comeback after recovering from appendix surgery and quickly reminded fans of his quality in the Glamour Boys’ final Premiership fixture. The goalkeeper registered his 14th clean sheet of the campaign as Amakhosi defeated Sekhukhune United 2-0 to secure qualification for continental football next season.

While goals from Mfundo Vilakazi and Glody Lilepo sealed the win, Petersen played a crucial role at the other end. Deep into stoppage time, he pulled off a brilliant acrobatic stop to keep out Bradley Grobler from point-blank range.

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Booth explains Petersen's backing

Petersen followed that performance with another shutout on Saturday, helping Chiefs edge AmaZulu FC 1-0 and taking his tally to 15 clean sheets for the season. His consistent displays have strengthened Booth’s belief that the goalkeeper should be part of Hugo Broos’ squad for the World Cup.

“It was an outstanding reaction save from Petersen, and he’s certainly making a strong case for World Cup selection,” Booth said, according to KickOff.
“I’ve really admired the way he has handled the challenges over the past few seasons. To produce a save like that under pressure was exceptional.”

Tough competition for Bafana Bafana's place

Despite his strong form, Petersen still faces stiff competition for a place in the national setup. Ronwen Williams of Mamelodi Sundowns remains the undisputed first choice and captain, while Sipho Chaine of Orlando Pirates has also enhanced his credentials after setting a new PSL clean-sheet record with 20 this season.

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Chaine was left out of the last Bafana Bafana squad, with many suggesting that it was a big issue for the Pirates goalkeeper ahead of the World Cup.

Broos could ultimately be left deciding between Petersen and Ricardo Goss, who has impressed during his loan spell at Siwelele FC from Mamelodi Sundowns. The Belgian tactician is expected to unveil his final World Cup squad on May 27.

More uncertainty over Broos’ future at Bafana

Briefly News recently reported that Hugo Broos may still have to formally reapply if he wants to continue as Bafana Bafana coach beyond the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The South African Football Association (SAFA) confirmed that a recruitment process for a new coach is expected to begin soon, although the door has not been closed on Broos remaining in charge.

SAFA technical committee chairperson Jack Maluleke reportedly said the Belgian mentor would have to “make the presentation” if he wants to continue.

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Raphael Abiola avatar

Raphael Abiola (Sports editor) Raphael Abiola is a Nigerian Sports Journalist with over seven years of experience. He obtained a B.Tech degree in Computer Science from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, in 2015. Raphael previously worked as a football editor at Stakegains (2016-2018) and a content editor with Opera News Nigeria (2018-2023). Raphael then worked as an Editor for the Local Desk at Sports Brief (2023-2024). Reach him via email at raphael.abiola@briefly.co.za.