Mathoho remains with Bafana despite brother's death

Cape Town - Coach Shakes Mashaba has praised defender Eric Mathoho for remaining with Bafana Bafana despite the passing of his brother.

South Africa are in Burkina Faso for their first FIFA 2018 World Cup qualifier and the defender is a part of the 25-man squad.

According to the SowetanLIVE, the 26-year-old has been in contact with his family all week and won't return home with the squad until after the match.

With the funeral set to take place next week, Mathoho will miss the international friendly encounter on Tuesday against Ghana at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.

"We are sitting here with a problem," said Mashaba.

"Mathoho came to us and told us that his younger brother has passed on.

"We need to encourage him and we appreciate that he says he will stay with the team and carry on.

"We would like to say to the family that we are with them at this point in time and we would like to thank them for allowing Mathoho to come here and finish his commitment with the national team."

Bafana Bafana will face Burkina Faso on Saturday in Ouagadougou.

Kick-off is at 20:00 (SA time).