PROFILE MASINA MAY PROVE ANSWER TO CTC GOAL DROUGHT
Sibusiso Masina may not get the goals he should in a Cape Town City shirt, but the skilful forward is among the most exciting players to watch in the Premier Soccer League.
The 28-year-old has been in and out of the City side this season under coach Benni McCarthy, but did score in the MTN8 final back in September that was eventually lost to SuperSport United on penalties.
He has a languid style, not always appearing to put in maximum effort, but also has the ability to turn a game with a moment of magic.
Technically he is among the most proficient in the league - an accurate shot, skill with the ball at his feet and the vision to play in teammates.
His goal in the African Confederation Cup victory over Mozambican side Costa do Sol could spark a change in fortune as well and, City will hope, he scores more to ease their forward woes this season.
With doubts about the fitness of Matthew Rusike, Masina could play a key role for City when they welcome Orlando Pirates to the Cape Town Stadium for their Nedbank Cup last-32 clash tomorrow.
He has a knack of popping up with goals in knockout games and against top opposition and should certainly relish the opportunity to fire City into the next round.
He should be front of mind for TAB soccer punters when they make their picks for the fixture, given that he enjoys playing on the lush surface of the Cape Town Stadium and in front of big crowds.
Never prolific, Masina has 14 goals in 69 starts as a professional and will point to a healthy assist count that adds to his value.
Masina started his career with local side Daveyton Swallows, but in his teens moved to play for thirdtier Sunshine United in the North West.
He continued to progress and later played for Vardos FC back in Gauteng, Roses United in the Free State and United FC.
He later joined FC Cape Town and it was there that he caught the eye of a number of Premier Soccer League teams with Mpumalanga Black Aces winning the race for his signature.
When the club’s franchise was sold to form Cape Town City, he had no hesitation in making the move back to the Mother City and is now in the most settled period of his career after four clubs in as many years before joining.