Orlando Pirates defender Innocent Maela admits that making his Bafana Bafana debut in the Four Nations tournament is a moment that will remain with him for the rest of his life.

The 25-year-old was handed his first-ever national team cap in South Africa’s 2-0 victory against Zambia in the final of the tournament on Saturday.

Maela revealed that receiving his first Bafana cap ranks among some memorable moments in his career.

‘You always remember the first time,’ he told his club’s official website.

‘I remember the first boots I ever got, the first professional game I ever played, even the first shibobo.

‘All players dream of representing the country of their birth and I am no different, I aim to continue improving at club level so that I can get more opportunities to represent my country.

‘Making my debut for Bafana Bafana was an honour and a privilege. I never thought it would happen so soon.

‘It felt remarkable to don the national colours, a dream come true,’ he concluded.

Photo: Safa facebook page