Mazhamba targets Afcon growth after Cosafa Cup success

Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Takalani Mazhamba believes his experience with Amajita at the junior Cosafa Cup, followed by the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), will be important in his development as he continues to wait for regular opportunities at club level.

The 19-year-old played a decisive role as South Africa U/20 retained the Cosafa title with a 2-1 victory over Mozambique 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. Mazhamba became the youngest goalkeeper to represent the club in the Premier Soccer League era when he made his first-team debut against Chippa United last season.

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

South Africa U/20 will now turn their attention to defending the Afcon title in Ghana early next year. Mazhamba said the team that won the competition in Egypt last year had shown that retaining the trophy was achievable.

“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.

Mazhamba was part of the previous squad but did not feature in the tournament. This time, he started all five matches and helped South Africa U/20 return with 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,” he said.

Mendes adapts to new role

Kaizer Chiefs attacking midfielder Steven Mendes also impressed during the Cosafa Cup after being deployed as a striker, a position he had not expected to play.

Mendes adapted quickly and ended the tournament as the leading scorer with six goals. He said contributing in front of goal was the main responsibility of the role.

“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 for the national team. He hopes the experience will lead to another opportunity when South Africa defend their Afcon title in Ghana.

“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,” he said.