Mthombeni backs goalkeeper son Wandile to succeed after Siwelele move

Real Native FC coach Bucs Mthombeni says he is delighted that his son, Wandile Mthombeni, has earned a move to Betway Premiership side Siwelele FC, although watching him play as a goalkeeper has brought an added level of pressure.

Wandile joined Siwelele from Casric Stars, now known as Real Native FC, during pre-season in July. He is competing with Botswana international goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko for a place in Siwelele’s starting line-up.

Mthombeni had been willing to select his son regularly during their time together at Real Native FC, despite the possibility of criticism from supporters and the wider public. He said Wandile’s ability meant he did not hesitate to give him opportunities, but acknowledged that the goalkeeper’s position made every decision more difficult.

A mistake by a goalkeeper can have an immediate effect on a match, and Mthombeni said the responsibility was particularly demanding because he was both Wandile’s coach and father.

“Actually, I was very happy. Remember, if your son is a goalkeeper, it’s the most stressful thing. Anything that happens, as a father, you always carry more than him. If ever he has a good game, then you enjoy most. But I am happy for him. He is a graduate because he has been with our team for more than four years and patiently so. He grabbed that opportunity and he never left it. I am happy for him,” Mthombeni said.

Wandile spent more than four years with the club and Mthombeni believes his patience has been rewarded by the move to Siwelele. The coach also hopes his son can establish himself at his new club and eventually attract the attention of the national team.

“I think he is going to do well where he is. I am always pushing and I say ‘my son, go there and represent Real Native and stay humble and you must work hard. I want to see you one day becoming number one and getting a national call-up’.”

Mthombeni’s comments came as Real Native announced 16 new players at an event in Pretoria on Friday night.

Among the arrivals are Vicky Mkhawana and Ofentse Kgosana, who have joined on loan from Kaizer Chiefs. Midfielder Lungelo Dondolo has also moved to the club on loan, from Orlando Pirates.

Kgaogelo Sithole and Thulani Skosana have signed for Real Native FC after leaving Baroka FC, while Menzi Ndwandwe has arrived following his departure from Highbury FC.

The club’s recruitment activity follows its transition from Casric Stars, with Mthombeni now watching his son begin the next stage of his career at Siwelele. Wandile faces competition from Phoko for the starting goalkeeper’s position, but his father has urged him to remain humble, work hard and continue representing Real Native FC well.