Renaldo Leaner: Sekhukhune keeper welcomes Bafana call-up with 'quiet confidence'

Sekhukhune United goalkeeper Renaldo Leaner has welcomed his inclusion in the Bafana Bafana squad with quiet confidence, insisting he was always prepared for the opportunity.

Leaner is part of the squad set to face Panama national football team in a two-leg international friendly, with the first match scheduled for Moses Mabhida Stadium on Friday before the teams meet again at Cape Town Stadium next Tuesday.

His selection, however, did not come without debate. The Ajax Cape Town Academy graduate hasn't been particularly consistent this season, having started 13 times despite making the Babina Noko squad 17 times.

Many expected Sipho Chaine to retain his place as the second-choice goalkeeper behind captain Ronwen Williams, but head coach Hugo Broos opted to hand Leaner the nod instead. For the 28-year-old, the call-up is less about surprise and more about readiness meeting opportunity.

“I don’t feel like I was surprised (by his inclusion in the squad). In the prelim squad, there are always five goalkeepers, (so) if your name is there from the five, you always have to be ready,” Leaner said, in Pretoria on Monday.

His mindset reflects an understanding of the demands at international level, where chances are limited and preparation is non-negotiable.

“If you feel like there are always three and that you won’t make the final and you do get a chance, then you won’t be ready. So, I was always ready.”

Leaner’s confidence is underpinned by consistent performances at club level. The Sekhukhune shot-stopper has quietly built an impressive campaign, registering eight clean sheets in 13 league appearances while conceding just six goals — numbers that have not gone unnoticed.

It is that form that has ultimately forced his way into the national conversation.

“I was grateful for coming here because I’ve been working for this, and it’s always been my goal to play for the national team. So, I was grateful to get the call-up and get the recognition,” said Leaner.

His inclusion also adds another layer to Bafana’s evolving goalkeeping picture, with Broos seemingly willing to reward form while testing depth ahead of bigger assignments.

For Leaner, the focus now shifts from selection to execution.

Training ground impressions must translate into performances on matchday, as he looks to cement his place in a competitive department. And with the spotlight firmly on him following a bold selection call, Leaner has the platform to prove that his confidence is not misplaced — but earned.