BULAWAYO – Veteran goalkeeper and Highlanders FC captain Ariel Sibanda has said he is happy that teammate Raphael Pitisi received his first senior national team call up following his recent top form.
Pitisi has been Sibanda’s substitute goalkeeper at the Bulawayo giants since 2022 when he joined the club.
However, the former Telone FC goalie is now Bosso’s first choice since taking over from the experienced Sibanda in April when they beat Caps United 2-0.
Sibanda is reportedly sidelined due to an injury.
Pitisi who has been enjoying his form, was recognised for his performance, resulting in his inclusion in the Warriors squad to play the COSAFA Cup.
This has left a delighted Sibanda saying: “I am very happy for Pitisi. The national team call-up will boost his confidence.”
Sibanda also acknowledges that Pitisi is currently “doing well ever since he came on board” replacing him.
He also praised him for his outstanding performance, indicating that he deserved the national team call up.
“What we have to do is to just support him because he has done his best. He deserves the call up,” added Sibanda.
Pitisi is competing for the Warriors’ first choice jersey with Brentford goalkeeper Marley Tavaziva and Simba Bhora’s Simba Chinani.
