Mazhamba eyes Afcon growth after Cosafa Cup success

Kaizer Chiefs and Amajita goalkeeper Takalani Mazhamba believes his experience at the junior Cosafa Cup and the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) can help accelerate his development as he waits for further opportunities at club level.

The 19-year-old played a central role as SA U/20 retained the Cosafa title, beating Mozambique 2-1 in Sunday’s final. Mazhamba conceded only three goals in five matches and was named goalkeeper of the tournament.

His performances came after he had already made history with Kaizer Chiefs last season, when he became the youngest goalkeeper to represent the club in the Premier Soccer League era during his first-team debut against Chippa United.

“These games … help me in terms of player profile and in terms of international football and in terms of getting experience,” Mazhamba said.

The goalkeeper is now looking ahead to the Afcon in Ghana early next year, where Amajita will attempt to defend the title won by the previous South African team in Egypt last year.

Mazhamba said that achievement had shown the current squad that retaining the trophy was possible.

“It is very important [to defend it] because the last team did it [won it] and it shows us that it is also possible; we need to go to Ghana and do it,” he said.

He was part of the previous squad but did not feature, instead supporting Fletcher Hani Smythe-Lowe, who played in goal. This time, Mazhamba started all five matches and helped South Africa lift the trophy.

“I was there with the previous team but didn’t play, but now I played all five games. It is a blessing to me because last time we went there, Fletcher Hani Smythe-Lowe was playing, and I was supporting him. Now I had my chance and I did very well, and we came back with the trophy.

Mendes makes impact in unfamiliar role

Kaizer Chiefs attacking midfielder Steven Mendes also made a significant contribution during the tournament, although he admitted he had not expected to play as a striker.

Mendes adapted to the role and finished as the competition’s leading scorer with six goals.

“Yeah, even for me it was a bit of a surprise playing striker, but I had to adapt quickly, making sure I provided for the team, in which I scored goals. That’s the strikers’ job and I think I did that well,” Mendes said.

The tournament was Mendes’ first major competition with the national team, and he hopes the opportunity will lead to another appearance at the Afcon.

“It is my first major competition for the national team; obviously it is a great feeling and hopefully I can experience that again at the Afcon.”