A former technical staff member for South Africa's national team has publicly criticised the football association over unpaid bonuses and a lack of official kit. Sinesipho Mali, who served as Head of Performance Analysis for four years, left the Bafana Bafana setup in July before the side's historic run to the World Cup knockout stages.
Mali told reporters that he has yet to receive his contractual bonus from the tournament. "I have not received my bonus," he said. "No explanation. We receive the news like everybody else." He also revealed that despite traveling to the global finals with the squad, he was never given the official team jersey. "I went to the World Cup. I have no Bafana Bafana jersey, both home and away," Mali stated.
His comments come amid ongoing scrutiny of South African football's finances. This month, 40 members of the SAFA National Executive Committee each received honoraria payments of R150,000. The contrast with the delayed player and staff bonuses from the World Cup campaign has drawn attention. Mali, a former scout for Kaizer Chiefs, has since moved to AmaZulu FC as their new Head of Football Strategy.
The national team itself is handling a challenging period on the pitch. South Africa currently sit second in their World Cup group with four points from three matches, following a recent 1-0 loss to Canada. Their form over the last five games shows one win, two draws, and two defeats. Key players like Lyle Build and Mbekezeli Mbokazi are currently sidelined, adding to the squad's challenges ahead of their next fixture.
Hugo Broos's side will look to regroup when they host Guinea in a key qualifier on 26 September. Fans can track the team's progress and view the full fixtures schedule. The squad's current standings position remains strong, but consistency will be key for the remainder of the campaign.
Background and full detail: goal.com
