Bright wanted Uganda over Namibia
Mqondisi Dube | Friday September 28, 2018 12:48
Instead, the Zebras will face familiar opposition in Namibia during the Independence Day celebrations scheduled for the National Stadium on Sunday.
“Not taking anything away from Namibia, I had wanted to face Uganda. It is not that I underrate Namibia,” Bright said.
Uganda was seen as the ideal opponent as the Zebras prepare for what should be a physical encounter against The Stallions of Burkina Faso.
But the Zebras had to settle for a clash against neighbours, Namibia.
Bright said he has called up a settled squad, and will only try new combinations on the wings on Sunday.
Two young players, Notwane’s Molebatsi Tlhalefo and Sharp Shooting Stars midfielder, Tshepo Malegas are in line to earn their first senior caps. Bright said this was a way of introducing the youngsters to international football.
However, for the Burkina Faso game, Bright is likely to re-introduce his regular wingers, including Kabelo Seakanyeng, Lemponye Tshireletso and Onkabetse Mankgantai.
“If you look at the team that we have selected (for the Namibia game), we did not change much in terms of style. This game is not about results, but about shape,” Bright said.
The team is expected to play a match practice against BDF XI this afternoon before a further session tomorrow.
Bright said he wants to try and see if he can get someone like Keoagile Kobe or Omaatla Kebatho, playing behind the striker.
“I want to see if they can give me penetration, drop deep and collect balls.”
Bright said since they play Burkina Faso back-to-back, he will pick a young squad, capable of recovering quickly.
The Zebras travel to Oagadougou, Burkina’s capital, to play The Stallions on October 13, before the return leg three days later.
Bright said they would only arrive in the country from Burkina Faso on October 15, 2018 a few hours before the reverse fixture at the Francistown Sports Complex.