The Case for TS Galaxy’s Stars
TS Galaxy chairman Tim Sukazi has publicly voiced his frustration over what he perceives as the unjustified exclusion of four of his club’s standout players from the Bafana Bafana squad. Sukazi believes that these players have demonstrated consistent performances at the highest level of South African football and deserve to be recognized as part of the national team setup.
Speaking passionately about the matter, the ambitious club owner made it clear that he sees these players as “national assets”, questioning why they continue to be overlooked.
“I’m saying it loud and clear… They are national assets. It makes no common logic for them not to be called,” he stated.
But what exactly makes these TS Galaxy players worthy of Bafana Bafana selection? And why does Sukazi feel so strongly about their exclusion?
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TS Galaxy’s Rise and the Players at the Heart of It
Since acquiring the status of Highlands Park in 2020, TS Galaxy has steadily grown into a competitive force in the Premier Soccer League (PSL). The club, known for its ambitious approach and strong recruitment policy, has built a squad capable of competing with the league’s best teams.
Under the guidance of head coach Sead Ramović, TS Galaxy has developed a reputation for being a disciplined, well-organized, and tactically intelligent team. Their success has largely been attributed to a solid defensive setup, a hardworking midfield, and a determined attacking force—several players from these areas have now caught Sukazi’s attention for potential national team call-ups.
Who Are the Players in Question?
While Sukazi did not name the four players explicitly in his initial comments, sources close to the club suggest that the individuals he is referring to are:
- Given Msimango (Defender – Captain)
- Bathusi Aubaas (Midfielder – Workhorse in the Middle)
- Spiwe Msimango (Midfielder – Creativity and Control)
- Pule Mmodi (Forward – Attacking Threat)
Each of these players has played a crucial role in TS Galaxy’s impressive performances, and Sukazi is adamant that they have done enough to merit selection for Bafana Bafana.
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1. Given Msimango: A Defensive Rock and Leader
At the heart of TS Galaxy’s defensive structure stands their captain, Given Msimango. The towering center-back has been one of the most consistent defenders in the league, offering leadership, composure, and strength at the back.
Why He Deserves a Call-Up
- Consistency: Msimango has been a key figure in one of the PSL’s most defensively solid teams. TS Galaxy’s ability to frustrate big teams like Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, and Kaizer Chiefs is largely due to his presence.
- Leadership: As the team captain, he has shown maturity and composure, guiding the club through both challenging and high-pressure matches.
- Versatility: Msimango can play in a back-four or a back-three system, making him adaptable to different tactical setups.
- Tactical Awareness: His positioning, aerial dominance, and ability to read the game make him a strong candidate for the national team’s defensive setup.
The Argument Against His Exclusion
With Bafana Bafana facing challenges in the center-back department, particularly in dealing with physical strikers and maintaining a defensive balance, Msimango’s absence raises questions. If form and performances are the key selection criteria, then it is difficult to argue why he is continuously overlooked.
2. Bathusi Aubaas: The Midfield Enforcer
Another player who has been vital for TS Galaxy is Bathusi Aubaas, a midfielder known for his incredible work rate, defensive discipline, and ability to win back possession.
Why He Deserves a Call-Up
- Defensive Solidity: Aubaas is a strong ball-winner who can break up opposition attacks and provide cover for the defense.
- Box-to-Box Work Rate: His engine allows him to contribute both defensively and offensively, making him a valuable asset in midfield.
- Physicality and Tenacity: He is not afraid to put in challenges and dominate the midfield battles.
- Passing Ability: He can transition play from defense to attack effectively.
The Argument Against His Exclusion
With South Africa often struggling in midfield duels, particularly against physical and high-pressing teams, Aubaas could offer the kind of tenacity and balance needed to strengthen the national team’s midfield.
3. Spiwe Msimango: The Creative Force
In contrast to Aubaas’ defensive strengths, Spiwe Msimango brings creativity, control, and vision to the TS Galaxy midfield. He has been one of the best-performing attacking midfielders in the PSL this season, helping the team transition smoothly into attack.
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Why He Deserves a Call-Up
- Playmaking Ability: Msimango has the technical skills to break down defenses and create goal-scoring chances.
- Game Control: He dictates the tempo of matches, ensuring TS Galaxy maintains possession and structure.
- Set-Piece Threat: His deliveries from free kicks and corners have resulted in crucial goals for the club.
- Dribbling and Passing: He can take on defenders and make crucial progressive passes into dangerous areas.
The Argument Against His Exclusion
Bafana Bafana has struggled to find consistent attacking midfielders who can unlock defenses. With his strong PSL performances, Msimango offers a fresh creative spark that could benefit the national team.
4. Pule Mmodi: The Attacking Threat
Every successful team needs a clinical and dynamic forward, and Pule Mmodi has been exactly that for TS Galaxy. His ability to score goals, provide assists, and stretch defenses has made him one of the league’s standout attackers.
Why He Deserves a Call-Up
- Goal-Scoring Prowess: Mmodi has been among TS Galaxy’s top goal-scorers this season, proving his ability to finish chances.
- Versatility: He can play as a striker, a winger, or even an attacking midfielder, making him a valuable attacking option.
- Dribbling and Pace: He is quick, direct, and can beat defenders in one-on-one situations.
- Composure Under Pressure: His finishing ability under pressure has helped TS Galaxy win crucial matches.
The Argument Against His Exclusion
With Bafana Bafana’s goal-scoring struggles in international tournaments, having a proven PSL goal-scorer like Mmodi could be a game-changer.
Tim Sukazi’s Strong Stance: A Call for Fair Recognition
For Sukazi, the exclusion of these players goes beyond just personal frustration—it raises questions about the fairness and logic of the national team selection process.
“These players are performing every week, they are competing against the best teams in the country, and yet they are ignored,” Sukazi said. “It doesn’t make sense. They are national assets!”
He is calling for the selectors to look beyond just the traditional “big clubs” when making squad decisions. Sukazi believes that just because a player does not play for Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, or Mamelodi Sundowns, that should not diminish their chances of representing Bafana Bafana.
Conclusion: Will Bafana Bafana Listen?
The debate over national team selection is always a heated topic in South African football, and Sukazi’s comments have once again ignited the discussion. While his passion and advocacy for his players are commendable, the real question remains:
Will Bafana Bafana’s technical team take note and give these TS Galaxy players a fair chance?
For now, Sukazi can only hope that their performances continue to speak for themselves—and that sooner rather than later, they receive the national recognition he believes they deserve.
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