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Pitso: Pienaar must chip in

Johannesburg - South Africa coach Pitso Mosimane expects the likes of Steven Pienaar to shoulder the scoring burden against Ethiopia at the weekend.

Bafana Bafana, who netted a paltry four times in a failed 2012 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, will host the Black Lions in a 2014 World Cup qualifier in Rustenburg on Sunday.

Sundowns striker Katlego Mphela and Moroka Swallows veteran Siyabonga Nomvethe are expected to start up front at Royal Bafokeng Stadium, with national skipper Pienaar typically the chief creator in midfield.

Mosimane, however, hopes his skipper can also contribute with goals, as he did for Everton in the tail end of the Premier League season.

"We need everyone to come to the party and convert the chances," Mosimane said in the Sowetan.

"The responsibility does not just fall on Bhele (Nomvethe) and Katlego Mphela.

"Steven Pienaar has also now just been doing it for his club (Everton) and his game has changed slightly and that is positive for us."

Mosimane added that Bafana have moved on from their 2012 AFCON disappointment, with the team set to clash with Botswana in another World Cup qualifier in Gaborone on June 9.

"We have dealt with the past and have our focus back in the team," said Mosimane

"From when I signed the papers to coach this team I knew what I was getting myself into. It's part of the package.

"To win the two games is crucial for us on the road to Brazil 2014."

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