Molefi Ntseki advocates for better CHAN support

The former Kaizer Chiefs mentor has returned to SAFA to lead a squad of only locally based players given permission by their PSL clubs to represent their national team over the two legs against Egypt.

Ntseki sat in the dugout for the first time as SA were held to a 1-1 draw by The Pharaohs in Bloemfontein on Sunday and the group travels to North Africa for the return match this weekend.

The coach says the competition, which plays second fiddle to the prestigious AFCON, deserves better support.

"I just can't remember when was the last time we qualified for the Chan tournament was. I think it was coach Ngomane, he went to play in the CHAN, I think it was some time ago,” Ntseki said.

“You're very right because the CHAN tournament is a very good idea to give local players that exposure but the challenge is also with the local league, it becomes very difficult for you if you are playing the next week or the next day and you have to release your top players.

“So, I also feel for them, unfortunately, in certain countries, whenever they have to play these CHAN games or qualifiers, on that weekend their league is off so they can give the national team their best players to compete and qualify."

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Should SA beat Egypt on Sunday they will go into the play-offs with another continental rival to secure a spot for the tournament jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda in August.

Ntseki is grateful to have been able to put together a team under the circumstances.

"The Betway Premiership, remember we started a bit late, so the games are coming thick and fast. So, it is also difficult for the clubs to release their top players but I think it's a good tournament,” Ntseki added.

“It gives players like the ones we have here an exposure. So, them doing well, they will be able to play in the finals of this tournament."