Despite the match falling outside a FIFA international window, a reasonably strong team has still been selected, thanks to Premier Soccer League clubs agreeing to release players during what is a big weekend in the league.

The Egyptians won’t be at full strength either, with key players like Liverpool great Mo Salah unavailable for the Pharaohs.

For Bloemfontein-born and bred Maema, it will be a momentous occasion – not only will he be making his debut for South Africa, but he will also captain the team in his hometown.

The midfielder (29) began his professional career in Bloemfontein, playing for Bloemfontein Celtic from 2018. Between then and 2021, he made 60 appearances for Phunya Sele Sele, and he quickly became a crowd favourite at the Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium. When Celtic’s PSL status was sold in 2021, he was signed by the seven-time back-to-back defending champions, Sundowns, and has never looked back since.

His next mission was to break into the Bafana Bafana squad. While this may not be a full-strength national team, it is a massive opportunity for the young squad to gain international experience and impress coach Hugo Broos.

Ronald Pfumbidzai (left) and Neo Maema in the colours of Bloemfontein Celtic. Picture: SNL

Speaking to OFM Sport, Maema shared his excitement about leading the team in his hometown on Sunday. “Ja, I’m motivated and very proud. Having the opportunity to captain the national team is a huge honour for me, especially because it’s in my hometown – it’s where I started.

“It’s also where I come from, so it’s very important for me to apply myself well and be an example. You know, pressure is a privilege, but I can only do my best with the information I get from the coach.”

Another Celtic player, coach

Another former Celtic player in the Bafana Bafana squad is Bongani Sam who was one of the team’s last captains before their PSL status was sold.

The stand-in coach, Molefi Ntseki, himself was born and bred in Botshabelo and is no stranger to Bloemfontein either.

Sunday’s CHAN qualifier between Bafana Bafana and Egypt at the Toyota Stadium will kick off at 16:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg