Ramatsiyi Moholoa

Ramatsiyi Moholoa

Majimbos' coach Serame Letsoaka is upbeat about their chances against Zimbabwe in the seventh African Under-17 Championships qualifier in Katlehong on Saturday.

The South African under-17 national side assembled in Johannesburg yesterday to start their preparations for the two-legged qualifier.

Letsoaka, who is helped by Limpopo development coach Solly Luvhengo, has made only one change to the team that brushed Botswana aside.

Deadly SuperSport United development striker Kermit Erasmus is back in the team after missing the two games against Botswana because of an injury.

"We need an aggressive striker of his calibre against Zimbawe," said Letsoaka.

"The plan is to score at least two goals without conceding on Saturday.

"I know we raised the hopes of South Africans after hammering Botswana 6-0 at home in the first leg."

Erasmus replaced Lebogang Moloto.

Barney Kujane, Safa director of national teams, has urged residents of Katlehong and surrounding areas to flock to the stadium.

"This is a crucial stage of the qualifier. Majimbos need to do well both here at home and in Zimbabwe to qualify for the finals in Togo next year," he said.

Admission isfree.

Squad:

Goalkeepers - Vumile Nxako (Harmony Academy), Themba Msiza (Moroka Swallows);

Defenders - Ramahlwe Mphahlele (Swallows), Tshepo Gumede, Siyanda Xulu (both Royal Coastal), Karabo Masehela (SuperSport United), Koloko Mokhethi (Harmony), Mzuvele Skhosana (Kaizer Chiefs);

Midfielders - Daylon Classen, Thulane Serero (both Ajax Cape Town), Bongane Sondhlane (Bidvest Wits), Ntshumayelo Thandani, Masibusane Zongo, Philani Khwela (all SuperSport United), Cyril Mashego (Orlando Pirates);

Strikers - Kermit Erasmus (SuperSport), Speedy Mabaso (East High Academy) and Thulane Ngcepe (Swallows FC).