Jali blow for Olympic team

VERSATILITY was high up on Owen da Gama’s list of requirements when he selected his final squad for next month’s Olympics in Rio.

Da Gama’s 18-man squad was named at Sascoc House yesterday and the names of Andile Jali and Lebogang Phiri were missing. Jali was expected to be named as one of the over-aged players alongside Itumeleng Khune and Mulomowandau Mathoho, but his Belgian club KV Oostende refused to let him go. Brondby also decided against releasing Phiri for the competition.

Despite missing the two overseas-based players, Da Gama is satisfied with the squad and expressed the importance of having a number of versatile players in the team.

The likes of Abbubaker Mobara, Phumlani Ntshangase, Deolin Mekoa, Kwanda Mngonyama and Gift Motupa can play in two or three positions, which makes it easier to deal with injuries or suspension.

“It’s been a great challenge to put the team together. We had to have players who can play in different positions, so we selected about six or seven who are versatile. We also needed to bring in a lot of height. Brazil scored from two set pieces when we played [in March] and Denmark also score from set pieces,” said Da Gama.

“Unfortunately Jali and Phiri were not released by their teams. They said it’s not a Fifa date. It’s a blow, but it gives other players a chance,” he said.

Da Gama’s men will today play the Mamelodi Sundowns players who did not travel to Egypt for the CAF Champions League match against Zamalek. On Monday they will play Bidvest Wits.

“We will have our final warm-up match in Brazil on July 29. Our opponents are yet to be confirmed.”

SA is in Group A with hosts Brazil, Denmark and Iraq.

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