Mamelodi Sundowns’ Uruguayan winger, Gaston Sirino, hasn’t dismissed the possibility of representing Bafana Bafana. Despite his Uruguayan nationality, he qualifies to play for South Africa due to his extensive time spent in the country playing for Mamelodi Sundowns.
Sirino expressed that football in South Africa holds a unique place in the world, and he would feel honoured to wear the national colors. At 32 years old, time might be running out, but he stated that he wouldn’t hesitate if called up to play for Bafana Bafana.
“I have had a great time in this beautiful country, I love everything about it and if I get presented with the chance to don the national team colours, I would jump at the opportunity,” Sirino told Sundowns Magazine.
“But the decision does not rest with me. There is no player born in South America who has played for Bafana Bafana and if I receive the call, I would be happy to represent this beautiful nation.”
Gaston Sirino explained that playing for Mamelodi Sundowns has introduced him to a different world where rival fans can peacefully coexist in the stands, and the team comes together to sing songs before matches.
“At first, I was surprised to see supporters from opposing teams sitting together in the stands,” Sirino said.
“That doesn’t happen in Uruguay because our passion for the game is different. I guess diversity in South Africa makes it easier to have harmony among the fans.
“I still recall how shocked I was when I saw the guys singing before the game with Collen (Baloyi) leading the gents in a song. Where I come from, these things don’t happen, but I slowly got used to the songs and now can sing along with the fans,” he went on.
“I must admit that the Haka Matorokisi dance we do at the stadium with the Yellow Nation is very sentimental as they sing their lungs out at every game.”
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