Former Mamelodi Sundowns winger Joel “Fire” Masilela says Bafana Bafana forward Percy Tau is no longer good enough to wear the number 10 jersey.
The 30-year-old former Al Ahly star has not delivered for the national team in over a year. His woes continued during the recent 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Despite his poor form, Bafana coach Hugo Broos has started with him in two of the qualifying matches against Lesotho and Benin.
Fire feels Percy Tau should not wear the number 10 jersey for the national team due to his poor performance.
“The jersey number 10 is a special jersey that should be worn by a special player,” said Masilela as per KickOff.
“It should be worn by someone who can carry the load, perform miracles on the field, and help the team win at all costs. A player who stands out every time they play.
“It’s a prestigious jersey that should be treated with respect. Remember what the legendary Jomo Sono said about the number 10 jersey. Many failed to understand him.
Fire says Percy Tau disappeared in matches
“Shoes Moshoeu was the country’s number 10 because he was exceptional. It isn’t a jersey to be worn by just anyone. Players like Percy Tau, who often go unnoticed on the field, shouldn’t wear it,” added the ex-Masandawana wideman.
“This situation makes us, as a country, a laughing stock to others, and it suggests we don’t understand the significance of the number 10 jersey in football.”
Percy Tau has not scored a goal for Bafana since his penalty against Namibia last year in January.
Should Tau be added to the September qualifiers?
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