NEWS
A selection of FirstTouch's best football writing, brought to you by emerging journalists, collaborators, and fans.
PSL: Can the tides turn for AmaZulu or are they destined for relegation?
One of the oldest and culturally connected clubs in South Africa, founded over 80 years ago, AmaZulu still find themselves feasting on the fruits of mediocrity and unimpressive institution building.
After securing just two points in their first five games of the 2019/20 ABSA Premiership Season, the AmaZulu board gave coach Cavin Johnson the sack. Understandable fears for a club who’s no stranger to the chop of relegation. Former Polokwane City mentor, Josef Vukusic has since taken the reins at the Durban club and led them to a first league victory over Cape Town City that lifted them off the foot of the table. Even under the guidance of the Slovakia born coach who led Polokwane to a 5th place finish in the 2018/19 campaign, can AmaZulu fight the “demons” of their mediocre history or a fifth relegation chop from the top division is looming?
“Usuthu themselves have known all too well that, on the wrong side of history and time is where they have frequently operated. They know they are supposed to be a big club and competing with the best there is in South Africa, so what do they do when they don’t find themselves in that position? They wing it, in an unorthodox style.”
image courtesy of Amazulu FC
The pride of the Zulu people
Most football clubs all over the world are formed or named after Metropolitan cities, they themselves tend to possess a history as rich as the cities they are named after and evolve in a strikingly similar fashion. We are talking of the likes of Real Madrid, Manchester United, the Milan clubs, Olympique Lyonnais, River Plate only to mention but a few.
That’s not AmaZulu. Losely translated, the name itself means “the Zulu people.” First founded in 1932, it has since been largely recognised and appreciated as a source of pride for one of the most distinctive tribes in Southern Africa and the largest in the country. You guessed it, the Zulu tribe. A whole people with a history of dominance and assimilating other clans dating back to the periods where raiding was an economic activity in the Southern-most part of Africa. The infamous Shaka Zulu is an instance of that dominant and howbeit bloody history.
Provided one is a stranger to South African history, they could still understand the weight and pride of a team formed 87 years ago by Zulu migrant workers and had eMbelebeleni, a Royal Kraal as its headquarters. Even the influential King Zwelithini is associated with the club, at least recognised and honoured by a side who bear the name of the tribe he leads. But how much of that history and pride has translated to an equally distinctive identity on the pitch?
Not much is the shortest answer.
image courtesy of Amazulu FC
A yesterday that still influences today
Old and successful clubs around the world have at least one thing in common, they sustain takeovers and reinvent themselves with time. AmaZulu haven’t been the best at this, not even second best. Numerous splits and take-overs back in time ensured the club changed names over 4 times and changed ownership at least 5 times. Different people with dissimilar visions came in and before one had successfully saw his through, change kicked in. Fundamentally, it is for that reason that one of the oldest clubs in South Africa have had to constantly find its identity while becoming an epitome of mediocrity. Their best ever finish in the top flight league since they were renamed to AmaZulu in 2005 has been 7th in the 2017/18 season which became 9th when Ajax Cape Town had their points docked for fielding an eligible player, literally the mediocre of a league boasting of 16 sides. They’ve been relegated 4 times from the division and face an uphill battle of staying alive in the ABSA Premiership after recording just 5 points after 8 games.
Just like wine, clubs are supposed to be bigger and better with age if you would consider the likes of Arsenal, Al Ahly, Orlando Pirates or TP Mazembe but that’s not AmaZulu, it’s like they are stuck on a treadmill or fell flat on their face whilst on it.
Buying PSL status
Usuthu themselves have known all too well that, on the wrong side of history and time is where they have frequently operated. They know they are supposed to be a big club and competing with the best there is in South Africa, so what do they do when they don’t find themselves in that position? They wing it, in an unorthodox style. To date, Usuthu have bought top flight status twice. Firstly, from Dynamos in 2005 when Dr. Patrick Sokhela took over the ownership of the club from from Mr. Sisa Bikisha. After Usuthu were relegated in the 2014/15 season and failed to win back promotion in the 2016/17 campaign, they returned to the top flight by purchasing the status of Thanda Royal Zulu.
This in itself underlies one of the problems in the culture of the club; preferring shorter routes to success rather than systematic and patient building.
Denis Suarez of Manchester City beats the Amazulu defense during the Nelson Mandela Football Invitational match between AmaZulu and Manchester City at Moses Mabhida Stadium on July 18, 2013 in Durban, South Africa.
(July 17, 2013 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)
Ambition assessment
In light of history and even their status now, how ambitious are they really? Very ambitious in my opinion. Just in 2012, when they celebrated their 80th year since formation, they played a friendly match with Premier League side, Manchester United which they narrowly lost 1-0, mingling with the big guys, just as other big teams do. Their fundamental issue possibly remains not the desire or ambition to stay in the top flight or even better, for titles, but how they go about doing it. For the longest time, there hasn’t been real evidence of grassroots work and structures to support such dreams and henceforth they remain castles in the air. Over the years, they have built their house without a proper foundation or had the foundation flipped and switched before the house could stand; no wonder they are where they are right now.
A future they want vs an all too familiar one
As mentioned earlier on, with only 5 points won after 8 matches and sitting not so pretty on 15th position, the fight for survival could get even uglier with rock-bottom Chippa United expected to benefit from the “new manager bounce,” after acquiring the services of Norman Mapeza who led Zimbabwean side, FC Platinum to two consecutive league titles in the past two seasons. Their new gaffer, Vukusic is no stranger to the PSL having led Polokwane City to a 5th place finish last term, but his appointment comes as a mere mercenary like acquisition and is needed to ironically help one of the oldest South African clubs, find their identity.
Should they be relegated, it could be tougher trying to buy another club’s PSL status these days and they will have no choice but to really built sustainably. As of now, they have to build that ship as it sails, still 22 more games to go in the season, a lot can still change.
There is a future they want and ought to have by virtue of their long history and there is that one which has ocassionally followed them, that fight for stability continues.
Is Khama Billiat the most important footballer in South Africa?
He has won it all, the CAF Champions League, PSL titles you name it. He is now helping those who haven’t and his nation adores him, as he was crucial in their back to back COSAFA success. He continues to be an ace up Zimbabwe’s sleeve in the ongoing 2019 AFCON Qualifiers but even further, perhaps the most important footballer in Southern Africa. His name is Khama Billiat.
Khama Billiat of Ajax Cape Town (L), Nick Powel (C) and Rio Ferdinand of Manchester United during the MTN Football Invitational match between Ajax Cape Town and Manchester United from Cape Town Stadium on July 21, 2012 in Cape Town, South Africa.
(July 20, 2012 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)
I vividly remember as an eight year old student in primary school being told that should your school play Gwinyiro Primary School, they wouldn’t a stand a chance because they had Khama. That was wisdom curated by slightly older brothers and sisters of mine in Mufakose, a suburb in Harare, Zimbabwe who had the privilege to be in his inner circle and see him dazzle the Mufakose crowd, young and old alike. Khama Billiat must have been just thirteen at the time, not enrolled in a fancy youth football academy but had made the dusty Mufakose streets and pitches his own. He was already the most important footballer in Mufakose, Harare and fast forward a few years, he has probably become Southern Africa’s pride and treasure. But who is he really?
Early Career
Noises about him definitely got louder as he finished primary school and soon became an Aces Youth Soccer Academy player in Harare where he continued developing into a professional footballer eventually grabbing the attention of Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League giants, CAPS United who handed him his first professional contract. He was so good that Makepekepe failed to keep Billiat for more than three months as South African Premier League side, Ajax Cape Town paid big money and snatched him from right under their noses. It was at Ajax Cape Town where his career really took off.
Blessing the South African PSL giants
Its generally considered a big break or breakthrough moment whenever a young player gets a chance to play for one of the big guns but for Khama Billiat, it was different. The big guns got a big break by winning his signature, he became an unfathomable blessing wherever he was. From 2010-13 at Ajax, Khama bagged a total 21 goals in 89 appearances for the Cape Town club. One of the memorable moments in that period was when Ajax welcomed Manchester United for a club friendly in July 2012. It was really a lowkey match as both teams fine tuned their methodologies before the new season, the match eventually ending in a 1-1 draw but Khama left a lasting impression on Manchester United legend, Rio Ferdinand. The retired England international described Billiat as an agile and exciting player to watch, with great speed and ball control.
It just got even better for the Zimbabwean as he eventually got a trial with Russian Premier League side, Lokomotiv Moscow in 2013 even though he signed for the Shoe-Shine Piano Boys, Mamelodi Sundowns.
2016, The Crowning Year
Khama Billiat of Mamelodi Sundowns controls the ball during the FIFA World Cup Quarter Final match between Mamelodi Sundowns and Kashima Antlers at Suita City Football Stadium on December 11, 2016 in Suita, Japan.
(Dec. 10, 2016 - Source: Atsushi Tomura/Getty Images AsiaPac)
At Mamelodi Sundowns, Billiat cemented his place not just as great footballer in the country but across Africa. Bafana BaStyle refined their attractive style of play nicknamed shoe-shine piano with Khama in their ranks as he eventually formed a formidable partnership with youth striker, Percy Tau who recently got signed by English Premier League side, Brighton & Hove Albion. With both of them not short of pace, trickery and killer instinct - it was like watching Messi and Suarez decimate their opponents at Barcelona. He played an indispensable role in the team as Sundowns marched on to glory, winning the CAF Champions League for the first team in their history in 2016, three Premier Soccer League titles, the 2017 CAF Super Cup, 2014-15 Nedbank Cup and the 2015 Telkom Knockout. It was a pretty solid five years from 2013-18 with many armpits raised moments as silverware came like running tap water for Khama and the Tshwane club. In total, he scored 39 goals for Sundowns in 99 appearances and was named the 2016 PSL Player of the Season, Players’ Player of the Season and Midfielder of the Season. He was pimped to the individual continental award by teammate goalkeeper, Denis Onyango who took home the 2016 CAF Player Of The Year Award (for players based in Africa).
“Khama Billiat must have been just thirteen at the time, not enrolled in a fancy youth football academy but had made the dusty Mufakose streets and pitches his own. He was already the most important footballer in Mufakose, Harare and fast forward a few years, he has probably become Southern Africa’s pride and treasure.”
Still marching now, now unto legendary status
The 28-year-old parted ways with Sundowns in the summer for another PSL giant, Kaizer Chiefs, for a new challenge. He has already scored 5 goals and assisted 3 others in all competitions for Amakhosi who are currently sitting third on the PSL league standings, a point behind bitter rivals Orlando Pirates. Chiefs will be confident that Billiat can help bring to Soweto , some long lost silverware. The Amakhosi gaffer, Giovanni Solinas was not slow to heap praise on Billiat and highlight his importance to the team;
“Barcelona have ten players and Messi. Kaizer Chiefs have ten players and Billiat. Khama is the best player in the PSL and he’s one of those rare players who makes the difference.”
Khama, the Warrior
He has been capped thirty times now by Zimbabwe and scored ten international goals. He is a major ingredient in the Warriors of Zimbabwe setup and a protagonist, as he oversaw the operation where most successful nation in the biggest Southern Africa Football tournament, COSAFA took home two more titles in 2017 and 2018. He is a crowd favorite and big game player for every club he has played in the most followed and competitive league in Southern Africa, he is a midfielder, a goal scorer, and a dazzler. He is Khama Billiat and perhaps the most important footballer in the Southern African football right now.
Khama Billiat of Ajax CT during the Absa Premiership match between Ajax Cape Town and Kaizer Chiefs at Cape Town Stadium on May 01, 2013 in Cape Town, South Africa.
(April 30, 2013 - Source: Gallo Images/Getty Images Europe)
Percy Tau Is One For The Future
Percy Tau to begin creating new memories in the EPL after signing for Brighton & Hove Albion F.C from South African PSL side, Mamelodi Sundowns.
The inevitable has happened, the hottest South African football talent might have just widened his circle of influence with his recent move to the English Premier League side, Brighton & Hove Albion. Percy Tau has penned a four year deal with the Seagulls, who are reported to have paid £2.8 million for his services, a record-fee for a South African.
A few months before today some thought the Senegalese legend, El-Hadji Diouf had gone mental. Diouf remarked that Percy Tau’s move to the big European leagues was long overdue and even went further to draw a comparison between the Witbank-born player with the likes of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane. As the 2017/18 South African PSL season drew to a close, it becomes even clearer just how much potential the 24-year old possessed as he proved to be a special ingredient in Mamelodi Sundowns’ title-winning campaign. Tau capped off the season by winning three of the most coveted individual awards in South African football; South African Player of The Year, Players’ Player of The Season and joint-top scorer award. The move could not have come at a better time, especially since Percy had won all there was to win with Bafana BaStyle, including the CAF Champions League. This step up is actually less about him and more about his country’s progress and his role in charting it.
The Twitter community showed just how much the move means to South Africa as a people, who have been criticised for creating a haven of mediocrity by not allowing their players to seek new challenges. Even rivalries were put aside as fellow footballers and clubs took turns to congratulate Percy. Most remarkably was the top SA top-flight side, Polokwane City’s tweet, “Minus one problem! Hamba Kahle Simba (Go well, Lion).” Even the country’s top goalkeeper Itumeleng Khune who plays for a rival club in Kaizer Chiefs tweeted,
“All the very best in your new journey #KingTau @percymuzitau22 fly the SA high #ProudlySouthAfrican #GodIsGreat ”
But the journey is far from over for the speedy forward as he now follows the footsteps of the likes of Quinton Fortune who played for Manchester United, Benni McCarthy (Blackburn Rovers & West Ham United) and most recently, Steven Pienaar, who played for Everton. He might just have a whole lot more to prove given the nation’s hopes pinned on him in an ever-increasingly competitive world. Percy will have to adjust to the new surroundings, new football style, make new friends and prove his worth. He will begin his Brighton career with a loan move in the upcoming Premier League season to “get an experience of European football” and actually allow room to have his work permit finalized.
“Percy is a player we have highlighted for the future, and there is no doubting his talent, having been voted South African player of the season. Percy will go out on loan this season, play regularly and get some experience of European football. We will be watching his progress and monitoring his development over the season.” - Chris Hughton, Brighton & Hove Albion Manager
All South African eyes and many new eyes are on him now and he seems to be embracing the challenge and poised to do well.
“Going out on loan is always good to help a player develop and get better. It’s new for me to be in Europe, and I’ll get to work on myself and a few things that I need to improve...Last season was great, I got a few personal achievements, but we won the league as well, which is something that means so much to me. I’m happy to have gone down that path, but it’s over now and it’s time to make new memories.” - Percy Tau
Adjusting to life at Brighton could actually be aided by the African connection building up at the club with the arrivals of the Malian midfielder, Yves Bissouma, Nigeria’s Leon Balogun who will meet the Cameroonian, Gaetan Bong who has been at the club since 2015.
Let us know just how high you think Percy will fly the South African flag in the comment box below.
PSL Awards: Tau crowned king and could Siphesihle Ndlovu follow his footsteps?
The sky is the limit for Percy Tau. On Tuesday night, at the Sandton Convention Center, the 24-year-old took home the 2017/18 South African Footballer Of The Season Award, Players’ Player of The Season and the joint Top Goal Scorer Award. The 21-year-old Maritzburg midfielder, Siphesihle Ndlovu won the Midfielder Of The Year Award and The Young Player Of The Season.
Inarguably the name that has dominated the South African football media throughout the 2017/18 campaign is at it again, this time with a few accolades besides it. Rightfully so, if you ask me. Percy Tau was the biggest winner on Tuesday night at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg where the ABSA Premiership Awards Gala was held. The 24-year-old was received the top two awards in South African football, the prestigious Footballer Of The Season Award and the Players’ Player Of The Season. He also shared the money with Polokwane City’s Rodney Ramagelela for the Top Scorer Award after banging striking eleven times for the PSL Champions, Mamelodi Sundowns. The Sundowns talisman will most likely be nominated for the CAF awards at the end of the year and rumors linking him to European clubs might not be far off now. The Mesut Ozil-like assist that he dished out to Sibusiso Vilakazi in their friendly against Barcelona shows glimpses of his quality and El Hadji Diouf’s praises and prophecy might come true after all.
On the contrary, not much has been said about Maritzburg United’s young playmaker, Siphesihle Ndlovu. The 21-year-old midfielder capped off his breakthrough the season by also getting a brace on the night, winning the ABSA Premiership Young Player Of The Season and the Midfielder Of The Season Awards. Ever since he joined the Team of Choice as the child, graduating from the ball-boy role, he has been on the up. At the time, they actually nicknamed him “Mbesuma,” after the former PSL Top Goal Scorer, Collins Mbesuma. Ndlovu became the first Maritzburg United player to win the ABSA Premiership Player Of The Month in January 2018 and went on to steer the team to a fourth-place finish. Leading up to the awards night, the youngster opened up on the reason behind his success:
I've never thought I could be nominated so soon, but also I think that anything is possible in this world‚ and that if you perform when you give 100 percent in every game‚ you're always focused‚ then anything can happen to you. From last season I was trying to make my way into Maritzburg‚ then when this season started the coach made me believe that I'm one of the best players in the world.” - Siphesihle Ndlovu, Maritzburg United
He received his first call to the Bafana Bafana camp in March 2018 for the Four Nations Tournament. Young Ndlovu is an exciting prospect that will surely turn heads in a few months time.
Here is the full list of all winners for the 2017/18 ABSA Premiership Season:
FOOTBALLER OF THE SEASON:
Percy Tau (Mamelodi Sundowns) — (USD)$ 19,960
ABSA Premiership Player’s Player of the Season:
Percy Tau (Mamelodi Sundowns) — (USD)$ 15,970
ABSA Premiership Coach of the Season:
Pitso Mosimane (Mamelodi Sundowns) — (USD)$ 5,990
ABSA Premiership Young Player of the Season:
Siphesihle Ndlovu (Maritzburg United) — (USD) $ 4,000
ABSA Premiership Goalkeeper of the Season:
Itumeleng Khune (Kaizer Chiefs) — (USD) $ 4,000
ABSA Premiership Defender of the Season:
Siyanda Xulu (Maritzburg United) — (USD) $ 4,000
ABSA Premiership Midfielder of the Season:
Siphesihle Ndlovu (Maritzburg United) — (USD) $ 4,000
ABSA Premiership Goal of the Season:
Siphelele Magubane (L. Golden Arrows) — (USD) $ 4,000
MTN8 LAST MAN STANDING:
Ronwen Williams (SuperSport United) — (USD) $6,390
TELKOM KNOCKOUT PLAYER OF THE TOURNAMENT:
Amr Gamal (Bidvest Wits) — (USD) $ 15,970
NEDBANK CUP: Player of the Tournament:
Lebohang Maboe (Maritzburg United) — (USD) $ 11,980
NEDBANK CUP: Most Promising Player
Lebohang Maboe (Maritzburg United) — (USD)$ 4,000
MULTICHOICE Diski Challenge Precious Find:
Siboniso Conco (L. Golden Arrows) — (USD)$ 2,400
MULTICHOICE Diski Shield Precious Find:(USD) $ 11,980
Itumeleng Shopane (Kaizer Chiefs) — (USD)$ 2,400
MATCH OFFICIALS
Referee of the Season — (USD)$ 4,000
Assistant Referee of the Season — (USD) $ 3,200
South Africa: Meet the self-made Bongani Zungu buzzing in Ligue 1
Bongani Zungu utilised all his first chances that coaches gave him, impressed in every instant and achieved his dream of becoming a professional footballer. From Duduza, Dynamos, University of Pretoria, Mamelodi Sundowns, Portuguese Primera Liga and now French Ligue 1, Zungu battled injuries, frustrations and a whole lot to pursue a passion.
South African football league, the Absa Premiership, is perhaps one of the most competitive leagues in Africa, funded more than most, marketed expertly and attracts players from all over the continent. It is for this reason that many talented South African professional footballers become trapped in the comfort at home and like most English footballers, spend all their careers playing in the domestic league. The trap which Senegalese legend, El Hadji Diouf, recently challenged Sundowns’ Percy Tau to overcome. There are a few mavericks though, and Goal recently had an exclusive interview with one, Bongani Zungu.
At 17-years of age, Zungu told himself that if he had not become professional at 20, he would have to quit the game. Supported by a moralistic and stable household, Zungu balanced football and academics and had his big break at in 2010 when Dynamos signed him from lowly Dixieland Stars after impressing at regional playoffs. After spending two years at Dynamos, University of Pretoria acquired the then 21-year-old Zungu who resoundingly shook South African football, appearing 27 times for AmaTuks and attracting interest from a host of top PSL clubs.
After the University of Pretoria came Mamelodi Sundowns where Pitso Mosimane partnered him with a veteran midfielder, Hlompho Kekana in his debut season and helped Bafana BaStyle to their first ABSA Premiership title in seven years. He made his Bafana Bafana debut in 2013 and then went on to realize his European dream by joining Portuguese Primera Liga club Vitoria Guimaraes FC for the 2016/17 season. Zungu battled through injuries and adjusting to the new environment and eventually impressed on his Portuguese debut on 22nd January 2017. For the second half of that season, he outstandingly helped the Portuguese club to a top-four finish and secure Europa League qualification. This resulted in the likes of Villareal, Malaga, Benfica, Hoffenheim, and Mainz vying for his signature - with French Ligue 1 side, Amiens won.
The story of the 25-year-old Bongani Zungu continues in France.
“When growing up, I always knew what I wanted and as much as I loved football, I always thought that when I got to the age of 20 and I was not a professional, I was going to quit and pursue something else. So, I was very excited when I got my breakthrough at Dynamos.” - Bongani Zungu, Amiens SC, and South African Midfielder.
Weekend Wrap: PSL heavyweights humbled & fan violence incident steals the headlines
This years’ Nedbank Cup finalists are Free State Stars and the Team of Choice, Maritzburg United. The above dumped two of the most successful clubs in South African football who were easily perceived as favorites to win the silverware. The Team of Choice tactically squeezed the life out of the PSL Champions in waiting, Mamelodi Sundowns to ease to a 3-1 victory also gifting the Brazilians their first loss in fifteen matches.
Another uninspiring performance by Kaizer Chiefs saw them losing 2-0 to Free State Stars who now have a chance to capture some silverware after 24 in waiting, should they go past an “awkward” Maritzburg United as described by the Sundowns’ boss, Pitso Mosimane. The Amakhosi loss led inspired an eventful weekend where we witnessed their fans run onto the pitch and cause some scene which many would wish they could be quickly erased from the memories of the beautiful game. The frustrated Chiefs fans were literally shoving down cameras, throwing rubbish on the pitch and chasing down the retreating players and coaching staff from both teams.
As if that was not enough, the end of it all was the resignation of the under-fire Kaizer Chiefs gaffer, Steve Komphela, who hit out at the new generation, describing them as being impatient.
The Chiefs chairman, Kaizer Motaung has issued a statement condemning the unruly scenes that took center stage at Moses Mabhida stadium. The club will still have to appear before a PSL Disciplinary Committee on the 3rd of May 2018. The SA Premier Soccer League has since promised to beef up security at all domestic matches.
South Africa: “Tau better than Salah and Mane” - El Hadji Diouf
"It only shows the good work that I and Sundowns do, and also how the coaches are helping us develop as players because we can easily be compared to European players.”
The former Liverpool and Senegal forward heaped praises on the quality of South African football, going further to single out Mamelodi Sundowns striker, Percy Tau. During Diouf’s visit to South Africa in his capacity as an ambassador of the Moroccan 2026 world cup bid, he also challenged South African footballers to get out of their comfort zone and aspire to play in European leagues.
In response to Diouf’s praises, the 23-year old Tau revealed that the former Blackburn man had previously expressed his views when they traveled to Senegal for their final World Cup 2018 qualifier.
“Look‚ I spoke to Diouf in Senegal, and he expressed his views on my game‚ and what he feels. So, I wasn’t surprised by what he said this week. It only shows the good work that I and Sundowns do, and also how the coaches are helping us develop as players because we can easily be compared to European players.”
The PSL joint top scorer with eleven league goals this campaign won the 2016 CAF Champions League with Sundowns and has since become a fan favorite at the club. He has distinguished himself as a striker who can race from deep, create chances, make assists and score goals. His coach Pitso Mosimane believes that he should unanimously win the 2017/18 PSL Player of the year. Tau is also determined to make Diouf proud.
“I hope one day he (Diouf) will be happy with what he said. I hope one day he’ll be proud that he said those words to this boy and look at him now.”
PSL South Africa: Sundowns edge closer to title after edging Golden Arrows
Mamelodi Sundowns could have secure their third PSL title in five years
Time seems to be delaying the inevitable as far as the South African Premier Soccer League title is concerned. Title favorites, Mamelodi Sundowns saw off Golden Arrows 1-0 at Loftus Versfeld Stadium. The Brazilians are now six points clear of second placed Orlando Pirates with only three matches left to play. Bafana baStyle’s superior goal difference of 12 mean that if they can grind out one more win, they certainly will become champions, yet again - to make it a record 8 PSL titles and the third one in 5 years.
The Brazilians had to score from the penalty spot in the 24th minute after a thoroughly entertaining first half which saw the woodwork doing all the work for the visitors, Golden Arrows. Pitso Mosimane named an unchanged line-up from the 2-0 win over Bidvest Wits with the trio of Themba Zwane, Percy Tau and Sibusiso Vilakazi leading the charges and causing all sorts of problems for the Abafana Bes'thende. Uruguay’s Gaston Sirino was the first to beat goalkeeper Mbaeva after showing some composure inside the Arrows box only to have his shot rattled by the cross bar. Vilakazi was then brought down inside the box by Mathiane which Ricardo Nascimento converted for the Tswane boys. Even after half time, Sundowns were pretty much in control, playing enterprise football full of trickery. Arrows goalkeeper had to pull off some heroic saves to keep the match at 1-0.
PSL South Africa: Pirates coach reveals focus as title chances fade away
"We are only thinking about the next match. We’ve no right to talk about anything else."
The Sea Robbers boss, Milutin Sredojevic has revealed that the club has met their 2017/18 season goals adding that their priority is now securing CAF Champions League automatic qualification. Orlando Pirates continued their unbeaten run by beating AmaZulu 2-1 on Sunday, reducing the gap between themselves and table-topping Sundowns to just 3 points who happen to have a game in hand. With three matches left for Pirates and Sundowns needing just 6 points from possible 12 to win the PSL title, it is almost game over for Pirates. Next up, the Buccaneers face the challenge of Bidvest Wits who are the latest victims of Bafana BaStyle’s predatory season. Mamelodi Sundowns capitalized on Wits’ mistake over the weekend to claim a comfortable 2-0 victory with Sibusiso Vilakazi and Themba Zwane getting on the scoresheet while Percy Tau was at the center of the slick build ups that led to the goals.
Amabhakabhaka are seven points ahead of third and fourth-placed Maritzburg United and fellow Sowetonians, Kaizer Chiefs. A win against the Clever Boys will secure second place and ensure they feature in next year’s continental showpiece, the CAF Champions League.
“We shall see. We are only thinking about the next match. We’ve no right to talk about anything else. So this is the target we are looking to achieve and stability in building the team to make supporters happy by playing good football. Next match is for the CAF Champions League.”
PSL Big Match Preview: Boys with Style welcome the Clever Boys
The match will kick-off at 4pm GMT, live on SuperSport.
Mamelodi Sundowns could increase the gap between themselves and second-placed Orlando Pirates to six points this Saturday, if they overcome a tricky Bidvest Wits side. With five games left to play, and three points gained will surely move Bafana baStyle closer to a third PSL title in five years. However as the Sundowns gaffer has previously described this period as a “squeaky bum time,” he is not oblivious to the challenge of the reigning champions, the Clever boys. Gavin Hunt’s spent most of the season anchored to the bottom of the log but have since found hit top form; they have lost only one of their last nine PSL matches. Currently occupying tenth position and three points behind Cape Town City in sixth, the Students would be relishing the prospect of finishing in a respectable position.
Both teams are expected to be firing on all cylinders given there are no significant injury concerns heading into the match. In their last time out, Bidvest Wits suffered a 2-0 defeat at home and would be eager to at least get one over the Brazilians and bow out as champions with some pride.
Managers’ Comments
“You know Wits will never allow us to win, let’s be honest. They have their pride, they have integrity. They want to show they can beat us. And Hunty [Wits coach Gavin Hunt] will never want to lose to us.”
“We want to finish as high as we can - everyone will have that same thinking. We are not thinking about anything else. The Ajax loss was our first in I’m not sure how many [nine league games]. But after such a bad first round, we have to go like hell still with five games left. We have to try to gett two points a game.”
PSL South Africa: Pirates hit a roadblock in pursuit of Sundowns
Pirates are now three points behind Sundowns with four games to play
On Wednesday night, the Buccaneers face the challenge of the relegation troubled, SuperSport United, with the match ending in an agonizingly 0-0 draw. It was a chance for the Orlando Pirates to close in on league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who were four points above the Soweto boys at the start of the match. As would be expected, the Trendsetters otherwise known as Matsatsantsha were never going to be pushovers. The match started off brightly for the boys in black and white as Zambian forward, Justin Shonga had his effort going narrowingly wide, moments just after he has struck the woodwork from a free kick.
Still, in the opening half, Mpho Makolo was next in line to try and open the scoring, shooting from 25 yards only for the woodwork to deny him as well. The second half had a different complexion, with no consistent rhythm. The best chance of the half fell to Pirates’ Luvuyo Memela who forced a nice save off goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams, tipping the ball just above the post for a corner kick. The 0-0 result means that Pirates are now three points behind Sundowns with four games to play until the end of the season while the Bafana BaStyle has got five.
In other fixtures, Ajax Cape Town boosted their survival chances by overcoming Champions, Bidvest Wits, 1-0.
Mamelodi Sundowns - The Sky Is The Limit
Mamelodi Sundowns are on the come up
Sundowns' Brief History
The Sundowns were birthed in 1960 by youngsters in and around Marabastad in Pretoria, South Africa. They joined the Federation of Professional League Soccer in 1967, reaching the finals of the Coca-Cola cup in their debut year which they lost to Berea United. Sundowns were relegated to the lower soccer division in 1980 before Mr. Cool, Zola Mahobe, bought and rescued the club in 1985. The ensuing years were the lavish years when the controversial Mr. Cool invested heavily in the club, seeing them win a few major titles. When Zola was arrested, Standard Bank seized the club which was later acquired by the Krok brothers who steered the club to seven league titles in the post-independence era (1994). Billionaire, Patrice Motsepe bought into the club in 2003 before increasing his stake from 51-100% in 2004, renaming the club to Mamelodi Sundowns as “a nod to its heritage in Atteridgeville, Eersterus and Laudium and the club’s home in Mamelodi.” His goal became continental glory for the club and appointed Pitso Mosimane as head coach, to steer the boys to success.
Locally, the Mamelodi boys are also known as the Brazilians because of their uniform colors, Ka Bo Yellow (with yellowness), Masandawana or Bafana BaStyle.
Championships and Records
Masandawana are the most successful South African club in the Premier Soccer League era dating back to 1996, having won a record of seven league titles, four Nedbank cups - an equivalent of the English FA Cup, National Football League Championships thrice and most recently, the continental crown (CAF Champions League trophy) and the 2016 CAF Club of The Year Award. Downs are infamous for annihilating Powerlines FC, 24 - 0, yes they won by 24 goals to nothing! It was a Nedbank cup tie in 2012 in which their long-range sniper, Hlompo Kekana found the back of the net seven times together with Zimbabwean striker, Nyasha Mushekwi getting half a dozen of goals as well. They are the only team from South Africa to ever participate in the FIFA Club World Cup though they finished winless in that particular tournament.
“Bafana ba Style”
The club is increasingly cementing their place in the fans’ hearts as the most attractive to watch in the PSL. They were dubbed, Bafana ba Style which literally means, boys with style. Their game is ever becoming more technical, full of flair, precision, and quick short passes - some locals call it ‘shoe shine and piano.’ In other parts of the world, this would be tiki-taka as is/was the case with the Catalans, Barcelona. Some would highlight that what sets them apart from the rest is their style mixed with purpose, unlike some PSL teams who showboat once in a while but have limited results to show for it. Their thrashing of Powerlines FC may act as evidence to suggest their ruthlessness even in winning positions.
Ubuthu-Botho - Living the Dream
You would be perfectly justified if you say that Ubuthu-Botho is perhaps their mantra. It is an African world-view which literally means humanness or personhood embodying socio-moral significance. The phrase is inscribed on their yellow and blue uniforms and more importantly - they seem to be intentional about living the inscription. Sundowns now have over 300 registered branches of supporters associations in Zambia, Swaziland, Botswana, Zimbabwe and even abroad
in the Cincinnati, USA. One of the supporters associations in Atteridgeville, South Africa contributed some money to buy materials and built a shack house for one of their own, on her birthday. They expressed their interest in helping a fellow Masandawana achieve her dreams. A shack house might not necessarily be a big deal some eyes but it was good enough to let tears free flow from the lady’s eyes. That’s how much it meant to her. From time to time, the fans also gather in small communities to enjoy some time together, grilling meat and drinking beverages. Social initiatives by the club include the Miss Mamelodi Sundowns beauty pageant, birthed in 2010 to empower women throughout the country. The coveted beauty pageant has the largest prize in South Africa and prides itself in paralleling with other prestigious awards such as Miss South Africa. They also participate in the Sanlam Kay Motsepe Schools Cup tournament, the biggest schools football tournament with a prize money of over (USD) $250 000. This tournament acts as an avenue for football aspirants to showcase themselves and at times get scouted by professional teams.
The Sky is the Limit
Backed by a strong sense of community, competitive spirit and a billionaire in the form of Patrice Motsepe, there is no telling how far they can go. We have recently seen them establish a football philosophy, acquire foreign players to camp in South Africa, not just fellow Africans but from as far as New Zealand, Uruguay and quite interestingly having the football aspirant/Olympics Champion, Usain Bolt join their ranks for training - I would guess that global conquest is in their sights and may possibly play a major role in taking African football to the world or bringing the world to Africa. The sky is indeed the limit.
PSL South Africa: ‘Love letter’ on the pitch as Sundowns edge closer to title
Mamelodi Sundowns zero in on the PSL Title
Mamelodi Sundowns are close to winning their 3rd PSL title in five years after coming from behind to beat Baroka FC by 2-1 on Sunday. After a slow start which saw former Masandawana man, Lucky Nguzana open the scoring, Sundowns center back, Wayne Arendse equalized at the stroke of half-time after he was left unmarked at the far post. A more comfortable second-half performance saw Sibusiso Vilakazi and PSL player of the year favorite, Percy Tau combine flowery passes with the latter, tucking away the ball into the back of the net for Masandawana’s second goal of the day. Tau is now tied with Rodney Ramagelela on the top scoring charts, both sitting on 11 for the season.
However, as you would expect from the Absa PSL, something else stole the headlines for the match. A note from the Sundowns coaching staff with player instructions in the 72nd minute seemed to circulate among three other players before eventually finding its way to the skipper, Denis Onyango who terminated the transition by chewing the note. Only them know what was written in that letter. I wonder who was sending love, or could it be the Brazilians’ winning formula who are now 13 unbeaten in the league.
The Sundowns gaffer, Pitso Mosimane is not leaving anything to chance in the title race as he borrowed a leaf from Sir Alex Ferguson as he described this stage of the campaign as a “squeaky bum time,” nerves begin to jangle.
Sundowns’ closest rival to the title is Orlando Pirates who play a tricky Super Sport United on Wednesday.
Absa PSL Awards: The “March Criminals” are all from Orlando
Orlando dominates March's ABSA PSL Awards
The South African Premier Soccer League awards for the month of March have been decided and the boys in black and white are looking good. The former Ugandan national team coach who now calls the Orlando part of Soweto, home, walked away with the manager of the season award for the second time this season. Coach Micho has revitalized Orlando Pirates’ goalscoring form in a “water into wine” fashion after a slow start to the 2017/18 campaign. The Buccaneers have now scored five times and registered two wins out two in the month of March. His team. Pirates have won their last five PSL matches and currently occupy the second spot on the log, a point behind Mamelodi Sundowns, though they have played one more game.
Coach Micho’s boys are not only following his instructions on the pitch but also to the podium. The 30-year-old Musa Nyatama won the player of the month award, recognized for his Kevin De Bruyne-esque performances, playing defense-splitting passes, giving assists and nonchalance defending. The guys command the midfield like no man or woman’s business. His Zambian teammate, Justin Shonga grabbed the goal of the month award for his stoppage time thunderbolt against Chippa United. Shonga’s goal will be in contention to win the Absal-lutely goal with the season together with the best goals of other months.
The player and coach of the month awards were decided by a panel of judges made up of the broadcast media and football analysts while the goal was voted for by the fans.
PSL Midweek Round-Up: Sundowns and Pirates keep their feet on the pedal
The ABSA Premiership title race has been nothing short of a spectacle
It is almost set and stone that the ABSA premiership title race down to the flamboyant duo of Masandawana and Amabhakabhaka. On match day 25, Mamelodi Sundowns comfortably beat Chippa United 2-0 at home while Orlando Pirates narrowly got past Bloemfontein Celtic, 2-1. Sundowns were not as slick they usually are against the Chilli boys but two goals from the SA POTY award favorite, Percy Tau and Zimbabwean playmaker, Khama Billiat settled the Brazilians nerves for the meantime, who have Pirates breathing down their neck on the standings. Zambia’s Augustine Mulenga wonder goal was the match winner for Pirates who have now played one more game than Sundowns.
In other fixtures, Kaizer Chiefs climbed up to third with a 1-0 win over Free State Stars courtesy of Teenage Hadebe’s injury time strike. Champions, Bidvest Wits, who were rock bottom for the greater part of the season continued their march to safety with a 2-1 win over fourth placed Maritzburg United. Benni McCarthy’s Cape Town City were stunned 1-0 at home by Golden Arrows and Matsatsantsha’s (SuperSport United) struggles continued they succumbed to a 1-0 loss against Polokwane City with the PSL top scorer, Rodney Ramagelela adding a goal to his tally.
Only five games remain. Who will win the title? Who will face the axe? Feel free to share your thoughts below.
South Africa: Sundowns and Pirates continue their title charge
Who do you think will win the 2017/18 South African Premier Soccer League title?
We are spoiled with appetizing Absa premiership matches on the night of the 4th of April. Mamelodi looking to extend their unbeaten run, Orlando Pirates seeking to extend their winning streak and both sides running towards claiming the ultimate prize, PSL league title. Sundowns (Masandawana) return to league action since the second of the match and will be looking to add more breathing space at the top of the standing when they face the challenge of the Chilli boys (Chippa United) whom they have never lost to in 9 league matches, since the 2012/13 season. Masandawana are currently a point above the Buccaneers (Orlando Pirates) with a game in hand advantage. Chippa are currently 11 on the table and most people would fancy Masandawana to get the three points
Amabhakabhaka are tackling Bloemfontein Celtic, who they beat 1-0 in their last time out at Celtic. Pirates will be keen to keep the pressure on the Sundowns especially now that only five games remain in the season. They will be feeling pretty confident, having won seven of their last nine games. The most recent win being a 3-1 victory against their bitter rivals, Kaizer Chiefs. However, Punye Sele Sele can prove to be a stubborn team on their day, having frustrated Chiefs to a 0-0 draw in their last match. They currently occupy the ninth spot on the league table.
South African POTY Award: “Give it to Percy.”
“Percy Tau must win player of the year award”
The outspoken Mamelodi Sundowns coach, Pitso Mosimane, has openly declared whom he thinks should PSL ’s player of the year award. Mosimane has expressed disbelief over the “campaigning” he has observed on the media for such awards, saying that it’s not healthy for South African football. According to Mosimane, no one comes close to the 23-year-old Sundowns player when it comes to South African football matters this season.
““For me, you can’t compare Percy Tau with anybody, give it to him. He plays Champions League and he’s scoring. He is scoring for Bafana, he is scoring in the league, he is scoring in the Nedbank Cup. Who do you want to compare him to? No, let’s be honest, who do you want to compare him to? Okay you can have nominees, which is good, but give it to Percy.””
Zimbabwe: Hardlife Zvirekwi suffers serious injury to his hand
Wishing Captain Hardlife a speedy recovery
The Warriors international, Hardlife ‘Nairobi’ Zvirekwi got a scare on his career as a result of a car crash after failing to negotiate a curve. Hardlife popularly known as Nairobi amongst the locals was returning from a friend’s birthday celebration in Harare when the mishap fell on him. The doctors have had to amputate his hand will miss the first half of the 2018 Castle Lager Premier Soccer League competition. The CAPS United captain, led the Makepekepe, “Green Machine,” to their a league title in 2016, also winning the award for the top footballer in Zimbabwe for that year. Prayers for Zvirekwi, we hope you have a speedy recovery.