South Africa Calls Up Ranga Chivaviro, Beating Zimbabwe to the Punch

South Africa Calls Up Ranga Chivaviro, Beating Zimbabwe to the Punch

South Africa has succeeded in securing the services of striker Ranga Chivaviro, granting him his first international call-up and beating Zimbabwe in the process.

Openness to Represent Zimbabwe

Recently, the red-hot striker expressed his openness to representing Zimbabwe in international football. Chivaviro, 30 years old, was born in Limpopo, South Africa, to a Zimbabwean father and a South African mother. He grew up in Mpumalanga, which makes him eligible to play for either nation.

In an interview on Metro FM, Chivaviro stated that being called up to the Zimbabwean national team, the Warriors, would be a thought-provoking proposition.

He emphasized the honor of representing one’s own country or a particular country, reflecting on the pride that comes from wearing a national jersey.

South Africa’s Move

However, South Africa has made a proactive move and offered Chivaviro his first call-up, including him in the preliminary Bafana Bafana squad for the upcoming COSAFA Cup.

The tournament is scheduled to take place from July 5 to July 16, 2023, in Durban.

Warriors’ Ineligibility and the COSAFA Cup Squad

It is important to note that the Warriors are not participating in the COSAFA Cup due to a FIFA ban. This presents an opportunity for Chivaviro to make his international debut with South Africa.

The preliminary Bafana Bafana squad for the 2023 COSAFA Cup has been announced, and Chivaviro’s inclusion demonstrates South Africa’s belief in his talent and potential contribution to the team.