Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Petersen remains hopeful of representing Bafana Bafana at the FIFA World Cup, which is set to take place in five months’ time, insisting that it is every player’s dream to represent their country at the highest level.
Among the goalkeepers selected by Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos for the recent Africa Cup of Nations, Petersen’s statistics compare favourably with all of them.
In 13 league appearances this season, Petersen has kept nine clean sheets — a better return than Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams of Mamelodi Sundowns, who has recorded six clean sheets in 13 matches.
Orlando Pirates’ Sipho Chaine, who is currently second choice for the national team, has kept eight clean sheets in 12 league outings, while Siwelele goalkeeper Ricardo Goss, who was the third-choice keeper as Bafana exited in the Round of 16, has registered six clean sheets in 14 league matches.
Petersen was included in the expanded preliminary squad of more than 50 players but was ultimately left out by Broos, who opted for Williams, Chaine and Goss — all of whom have been part of his system for a longer period.
“I think it’s every player’s dream to be part of the national team’s World Cup squad,” said Petersen.
“For me, the main focus remains club football because that’s where selection comes from. My job is to stay focused and consistent at club level, and if the opportunity comes to be part of the squad, I’ll grab it with both hands.”
Petersen, who joined Chiefs from Bidvest Wits in 2021, will be eager to maintain his consistency as the World Cup approaches in June, with Bafana Bafana scheduled to open their campaign against Mexico on 11 June in Mexico City.
In the meantime, the 31-year-old is under pressure to perform at club level, with his contract set to expire at the end of the season.
It remains unclear whether Amakhosi have indicated any intention to extend his stay beyond the current campaign.
Petersen played a key role in ending Chiefs’ 10-year trophy drought last season by helping the club win the Nedbank Cup. To date, he has made 66 appearances in all competitions for the club, conceding 56 goals and keeping 29 clean sheets.