South African Football Association (SAFA) President Kirsten Nematandani is still optimistic that Bafana Bafana could qualify for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

Nematandani says they are hopeful, despite the fact that Group A leaders Ethiopia are still favourites. He says a lot rests on the ruling regarding Ethiopia’s fielding of a suspended player.

SAFA says their understanding is that the likelihood of Ethiopia being docked three points after the disciplinary hearing is a reality. Its president says the player was not supposed to play, and the same player did play whilst Bafana played Ethiopia away but the question is, was the player supposed to play in their game or not?

Nematandani was speaking at the relaunch of the SAB League. It’s already unearthed a host of talent – some players have been good enough to be absorbed by big name Premiership clubs.

Former Bafana Bafana captain, Neil Tovey, says the new Kaizer Chiefs signing Simphiwe Mtsweni is one of those players to get spotted by big teams.

Tovey says he was part of Farouk Khan’s academy but the platform was created with regards to SAB giving him exposure.

“Kaizer Chiefs signed Simphiwe as a left fullback. You know left fullbacks are vital to any team and Chiefs coach Stuart Baxter liked him a lot for the season; and it’s only five months since he was identified,” says the former Bafana Bafana captain.
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