Sipho Mbule scores first Zakho SC goal in Iraqi Stars League

Sipho Mbule marked a fresh start with Zakho SC by scoring a spectacular goal and setting up another in the Iraqi Stars League, although his contribution was not enough to earn victory against Diyala.

The South African midfielder opened his account for the club late in the first half of their home match on Tuesday. He struck a powerful effort which left Diyala’s goalkeeper helpless before the ball flew into the bottom corner.

Mbule also provided an assist during the game, but Zakho had to settle for a draw after the two sides could not be separated.

The result leaves Zakho ninth in the Iraqi Stars League table after three matches. They have collected four points from one win, one draw and one defeat, putting them three points behind early leaders Erbil.

Zakho also finished ninth last season, but the club hope the arrival of players such as Mbule can help them climb higher in the standings during the current campaign.

For Mbule, the goal and assist represent an encouraging beginning to his time in Iraq as he attempts to revive a career that had lost momentum in South Africa.

The 28-year-old came to Zakho after spells with SuperSport United, Mamelodi Sundowns, Sekhukhune United and Orlando Pirates. His progress at home was repeatedly disrupted by off-field discipline issues, limiting the consistency he was able to show on the pitch.

Mbule, who is nicknamed “Master Chef”, has long been regarded as a player with significant natural ability. Some observers believe that, had he avoided those setbacks, he could have become one of the dominant midfielders in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), established himself among South Africa’s all-time greats and secured a move to one of Europe’s major leagues.

His career, however, is not beyond repair. Mbule still has time to rebuild his reputation, rediscover his best form and reach the potential that made him such a highly regarded talent.

His move to the Middle East gives him an opportunity to do that, either by making a sustained impact with Zakho or by using the Iraqi Stars League as a platform for a future move elsewhere.

The next stage of his career will depend largely on whether he can maintain the focus and consistency that have so far proved difficult to sustain. His opening performance for Zakho has at least given him a positive foundation as he looks to establish himself in Iraq.