Mazhamba says Cosafa Cup experience can aid Kaizer Chiefs breakthrough

Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Takalani Mazhamba believes his experience with South Africa Under-20s at the Cosafa Cup, followed by the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, will help his development as he waits for further opportunities at club level.

The 19-year-old played a central role as Amajita retained the Cosafa title with a 2-1 victory over Mozambique in Sunday’s final. He conceded only three goals in five matches and was named goalkeeper of the tournament.

Mazhamba made history at Kaizer Chiefs last season when he became the youngest goalkeeper to represent the club during the Premier Soccer League era, after making his first-team debut against Chippa United.

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

South Africa will now turn their attention to defending the Africa Cup of Nations title in Ghana early next year. Mazhamba said the previous team’s success in retaining the trophy had shown the current squad that another triumph was possible.

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

Mazhamba was part of the previous squad that won the competition in Egypt last year, although he did not play. His role changed at this year’s Cosafa Cup, where he started all five matches.

“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 embraces unfamiliar striking role

Kaizer Chiefs attacking midfielder Steven Mendes said he was surprised to be used as a striker during the recently completed Cosafa Cup.

Despite having to adjust to the unfamiliar position, Mendes finished as the tournament’s leading scorer with six goals and was pleased with the contribution he made to the team.

“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,” Mendes said.

“That’s the strikers’ job and I think I did that well.”

The tournament was Mendes’ first major competition with the national team. He said the experience had given him confidence and expressed hope of representing South Africa again at the Africa Cup of Nations.

“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.”