Tylon Smith ready to learn after breakthrough Bafana Bafana call-up

Bafana Bafana defender Tylon Smith continues his steady rise, and after reaching another milestone with his maiden senior national team call-up, the youngster is eager to embrace the lessons that will come with the experience as South Africa prepare for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Bafana will begin their AFCON campaign with a clash against Angola at the Marrakech Grand Stadium on December 22 in Morocco.

The 20-year-old was part of the South African side that won the U20 Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year and has just returned from the U20 World Cup, a tournament that offered him valuable exposure on the global stage.

Although the senior national team is a significant step up, his inclusion — regardless of whether he features on the pitch — provides an important foundation for South Africa’s future. For Smith, simply being part of the squad represents an opportunity to grow.

Grateful for the confidence shown in him by the Belgian coach, the Queens Park Rangers defender expressed his appreciation for the chance to learn and absorb as much as possible from the tournament environment.

“I want to thank the coach for giving me an opportunity to be part of the team,” Smith said.

“I watched online as the coach announced the team, and when he said my name I was grateful as a 20-year-old. It was emotional also because, from where I come from, it is a difficult year for me, but this was a great achievement for me to be part of the team.”

The former Stellenbosch FC reserves defender’s rise has been impressive. After emerging from the Winelands club, he was spotted by historic English side QPR, marking a major leap in his development.

His Bafana selection did prompt a few raised eyebrows, especially as he had not played regular senior football for Stellenbosch and had not been part of the national team during the AFCON build-up, which was largely focused on World Cup qualifiers.

However, with coach Hugo Broos having consistently shown faith in emerging talent throughout his tenure, Smith’s call-up ultimately reflects that philosophy. It will serve as a valuable opportunity for him to learn and position himself for future selections, with several major tournaments still ahead.

Reflecting on his recent journey, Smith said he has worked relentlessly to ensure his transition has been as smooth as possible.

“To be honest, it wasn’t difficult for me.(the move to QPR and the adjustment).

“Every single day at training I would just give it my all. I always said to myself before training, I won’t give up, my time will come, and I must just keep on working hard.

“There were also some people who motivated me, and they played a huge part in my life. Mentally I was strong and working hard every single day at training.

“It was a massive move for me from Stellenbosch to QPR. I reminded myself to stay calm and just do what is expected of me to do. 

“And receiving this call-up, it was the same thing—coming here to learn from the players that are more experienced, taking that, and using it to grow as a player.”

Bafana assembled at the University of Pretoria’s High Performance Centre earlier this week as they prepare for their departure for the tournament, and as he settles into camp following his first call-up, Smith says he already feels at home.

“The players welcomed me well,” he continued.

“I am close with Oswin (Appollis) because we both speak Afrikaans, and also Ronwen (Williams). I have felt welcomed since I came here.

“I know I am still young; I have to learn and execute, as that will improve me as a player.”