More backing for Petersen to Bafana call

A former Bafana Bafana defender has added his voice to the debate around Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Petersen’s possibility of being called up to the Bafana Bafana squad for the FIFA World Cup.

Kaizer Chiefs secured a return to continental football with a 2-0 win over Sekhukhune United on Sunday.

Goals were from Mfundo Vilakazi and Glody Lilepo, while Petersen, who recently returned to action after an appendix surgery, collected his 14th clean sheet of the season.

READ: ‘Champions League is like gambling’

That clean sheet very nearly slipped away as a last-minute attack from Babina Noko forced Petersen into an acrobatic save to deny Bradley Grobler at close range.

Former Bafana Bafana defender Matthew Booth has done enough to be a strong contender for a spot in Bafana‘s final squad.

"It was a great reflex save from Petersen, who is definitely staking his claim for a trip to the World Cup.

"I’ve enjoyed his journey over the last couple of seasons, the trials and tribulations. So pulling off a save of that nature was just fantastic, again, when looking at everything.

Petersen faces stiff competition for a place in that final squad. Mamelodi Sundowns’ and Bafana captain Ronwen Williams is expected to be part of the final squad.

The same goes for Sipho Chaine, who recently set a new PSL record for the most clean sheets in a single season.

READ: Pressure is on Pirates, declares Sundowns star

The major decision for Hugo Broos in terms of the goalkeeping department will likely go down to either Petersen or Ricardo Goss, who has also impressed on loan at Siwelele.

The Belgian is expected to name his final squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup on 27 May.