Mpho Padime: Orlando Pirates winger embraces township roots and dribbling style

Orlando Pirates winger Mpho Padime says his instinctive dribbling comes from growing up watching township football rather than European matches.

The 19-year-old was speaking at the South Africa Under-23 camp in Pretoria, where the squad are preparing for two friendly matches against Algeria.

Padime was initially noticed playing football in the townships of Katlehong before earning promotion to the senior squad from the DStv Diski Challenge. He has since become a popular figure at Pirates because of his willingness to take on opponents and use tricks when given the opportunity.

The attacker was asked about criticism that there is less room for individual skill in the modern game.

“I would have liked to change but sometimes…where I grew up…sometimes when I’m on the pitch these things just happen, I grew up watching these things most of the time,” Padime said.

“I did not grow up watching European football. Most of the time I grew up ekasi (in the township), watching guys from kasi (township) dribbling, so even when I’m on the pitch, sometimes I can’t help it, it just happens,” he added.

Padime’s message to aspiring players

Padime is one of six Orlando Pirates players included in the South Africa Under-23 squad announced last week.

Goalkeeper Kgoleng Ratisani, Neo Rapoo, Cemren Dansin, Simphiwe Selepe and Bohlale Ngwato are the other five Pirates players selected.

Having progressed from township football to the professional game, Padime encouraged young players who see him as an example to remain committed to their ambitions.

“I can say don’t lose the spirit, work hard. Playing ekasi (in the township) does not mean you are down or something because you never know who is watching and where you will end up,” Padime said at Clapham High School in Queenswood, Pretoria, on Tuesday, where the Under-23 team were training.

“So continue working hard and everything else will fall into place. God will always be there to help you.”

South Africa Under-23 coach Raymond Mdaka’s side will face Algeria in Durban on Wednesday before the second friendly between the teams on Saturday.