Deano Van Rooyen Joins Bafana Squad for International Friendlies

Orlando Pirates’ right-back Deano Van Rooyen has been selected to join the national senior team for upcoming international friendlies against Tanzania and Mozambique in Polokwane. The matches are scheduled at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, with Tanzania on Friday evening and Mozambique four days later. Van Rooyen, who transferred to the Buccaneers from Stellenbosch FC this season, is among four new players from his club called up by coach Hugo Broos. This season, Van Rooyen contributed to Pirates finishing second in the league and reaching the CAF Champions League semi-finals. Speaking in Polokwane, he expressed pride in his first senior national team call-up, attributing it to his dedication and hard work. “It’s an honour and a privilege to get selected for the Bafana squad” said Van Rooyen. He also commented on teammate Nkosinathi Sibisi’s leadership qualities after Sibisi was named captain in Ronwen Williams’ absence, noting his impactful actions on the field.