Football
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South Africa name first squad for ANC qualifiers since Senzo Meyiwa death

South Africa coach Ephraim Mashaba has called up two inexperienced goalkeepers for his first national squad since the murder of former No. 1 and captain Senzo Meyiwa.

Meyiwa, 27, was shot dead at a house in the Vosloorus township near Johannesburg on Oct. 26.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) have since confirmed that a suspect had been charged and remanded in custody as the investigation into the fatal shooting continues.

South Africa had delayed naming their squad last week following the death, but Mashaba has selected Siyabonga Mpontshane and Brilliant Khuzwayo for his side's final two African Nations Cup qualifiers against Sudan and Nigeria on Nov. 15 and 19 respectively.

Bafana Bafana coach Mashaba told the South African Football Association's website: "We went through a very hectic period following the passing on of Senzo [Meyiwa]. This will be the first time we meet since this tragedy befell us but we just have to accept and move forward.

"It is going to be a difficult thing but everything happens for a reason and I believe through God's will, the players will automatically be able to play above themselves.

"I don't think it is going to be a gloomy period in camp, we can only hope this is over and start marching on. We will play for him as he did a sterling job towards this team's qualification, so we need carry the baton and ensure we qualify for Morocco 2015.

"The replacement of Senzo is a two-pronged issue -- one as a goalkeeper and two as a captain, and both will have to be decided before we play our first match. We will have a good look at the players that will be in camp and we will make a decision at the right time.

"It will not be an easy thing to replace Senzo in both positions, but we will do our best to find a suitable replacement and life has to go on. We are also confident that whoever takes over one or two of those roles will be able to deliver."

Darren Keet is likely to start in goal for Bafana Bafana, though the Belgium-based KV Kortrijk shot-stopper has just one national cap.

South Africa have moved their qualifier against Sudan to the World Cup stadium in Meyiwa's hometown, and the players will also wear black armbands to commemorate the goalkeeper.

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