Youth tourney finding gems
Mthimkhulu in sparkling form at SAB U21 Champs
A number of players have raised their hands and possibly attracted the attention of scouts at the ongoing SAB Under-21 National Championships at King Zwelithini Stadium in Umlazi.
One of the tournament’s standout performers thus far is Gauteng’s attacking midfielder Thamsanqa Mthimkhulu, 21, who is on the books of Ma-Lions, an Atteridgeville, Pretoria-based outfit. They are coached by famous ex-Baroka tactician Kgoloko Thobejane in the ABC Motsepe League.
“Our team was called Barcelona and we were in the SAB League but they’ve since bought a status in the Motsepe League. We are now called Ma-Lions. Thobejane has recently joined us for the new season,” Mthimkhulu told Sowetan yesterday.
“I hope that someone out there has noticed my performances. I think I have done well but I won’t rest on my laurels. My biggest dream is to play top-flight football in the next two years.”
Mthimkhulu is inspired by his peer Siphesihle Ndlovu of Maritzburg United, who has already established himself as one of the best upcoming players in the country.
“He’s my role model. He’s young but has already made his name in the top division. It’s my first year playing in this tournament and I understand that Ndlovu was also discovered here, that motivates me a lot.”
Mthimkhulu’s four goals in the group stages ensured that Gauteng booked their spot in the semifinals. They’ll play University Sports SA (USSA) for a spot in the final today (11am). In the second semifinal, Limpopo will battle it out against Mpumalanga.
The lad from Nkandla in KwaZulu-Natal has been living in Pretoria since 2014. He moved to SA’s capital city with an aim of taking his football career to the next level.
“I grew up in Nkandla but in 2014 I moved to Pretoria to stay with my father, who’s working there. The relocation was about getting more opportunities because in rural areas there are no proper sports facilities. I am optimistic leaving my village will eventually pay off,” noted Mthimkhulu, who matriculated last year.
“I haven’t enrolled at any university since I passed my Grade 12 last year. I am focusing more on football but once I get a top-flight team I will further my studies.”
Yesterday’s results
Mpumalanga 2, KZN 0; Gauteng 6, Northern Cape 1. USSA 2, North West 0. Limpopo 1, Eastern Cape 0.