Tefu Mashamaite Signs with Sweden’s BK Häcken After MLS Setback
South African defender Tefu Mashamaite has officially joined Swedish club BK Häcken, bringing an end to speculation about his next destination following the expiration of his contract with Kaizer Chiefs.
Mashamaite, 24, had been previously linked with a move to Major League Soccer (MLS) and was spotted training in New York alongside stars such as Frank Lampard and David Villa. However, despite the attention, the former Kaizer Chiefs captain did not secure a deal with the American side.
Now, the highly-rated centre-back has opted for a new chapter in Europe, signing a two-and-a-half-year contract with BK Häcken, currently sitting mid-table in the Swedish Allsvenskan. The move marks Mashamaite’s first venture into European football.
The Bafana Bafana international enjoyed a stellar 2014–15 campaign in South Africa, earning accolades as both the Premier Soccer League’s best defender and best overall player. His leadership and consistency at the heart of the Chiefs’ defence played a crucial role in their domestic success.
Mashamaite’s transition to the Swedish top flight is seen as a key step in his development, offering the defender exposure to European competition and a fresh environment in which to build on his strong domestic form.
BK Häcken will hope the arrival of Mashamaite can help solidify their defence as they aim to climb higher in the league standings. The club currently sits ninth in the Allsvenskan and sees the South African as a valuable addition to its squad.
The move also underlines the increasing presence of African talent in Scandinavian leagues, where clubs continue to scout the continent for players who can make an immediate impact.
For Mashamaite, it’s a new beginning and a chance to prove himself on the European stage.
