Following an impressive display at the U20 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in Egypt, Amajita defender Siviwe Nkwali is already setting his sights on breaking into the first team at his new club.
Nkwali confirmed to Sunday World this week that he will be joining Stellenbosch FC in June after signing a pre-contract with the club.
He will join Stellies from the recently relegated Cape Town Spurs in the Motsepe Foundation Championship.
The 19-year-old was by far one of the standout players for coach Raymond Mdaka’s U20 team that made history by winning the first-ever Afcon when they beat Morocco 1-0 last Sunday.
Plan to catch Hugo Broos’ eye
“We first have to thank God for being with us throughout this journey and for leading us to winning the Afcon,” Nkwali said on the sidelines upon their arrival at the OR Tambo International Airport on Tuesday.
“Arriving home as a champion and to this reception is a wonderful feeling because we are seeing all the people who were supporting us throughout the competition.
“As far as my goals are concerned, I want to play more club football when the season starts at my new club, Stellenbosch, and maybe coach Hugo Broos will see us [Amajita stars] and give us an opportunity at Bafana Bafana.”
Despite not playing for the majority of the previous championship campaign with Spurs, Mdaka called up Nkwali, who played a crucial role in the heart of the Amajita defence and even won Man of the Match during their 1-0 victory over Tanzania.
Teaming up with Tylon Smith
Building up to the competition, there were concerns about Orlando Pirates not releasing one of Mdaka’s key players, Mbekezeli Mbokazi.
However, Nkwali took the initiative and teamed up flawlessly with Tylon Smith, who won the Player of the Tournament award.
“That’s football; when you get a chance to play, you must seize it. I made sure to use my chance to cement my position alongside Tylon,” said Nkwali.
“It was a blessing to pair up with Tylon and have a talented goalkeeper [Fletcher Lowe] behind us because we worked well together.
“We knew each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and we were able to help one another in that aspect. So, we have built that partnership and have a positive relationship.”
