A modern-day legend of South African football, Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder Themba Zwane reveals his vulnerabilities in doubting his abilities in an exclusive KickOff chat.
In a decorated career that spans over a decade in the top-flight, including over ten titles and numerous individual accolades, "Mshishi" has solidified himself as one of the greats of South African football.
READ | Themba Zwane reveals season targets and secret behind years at the top
Zwane has drawn praise from numerous coaches, players and fellow legends, with Benni McCarthy labeling the mercurial midfield as one of the most consistent players in South African football, while Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena believes South Africa will 'struggle' to replace' the Tembisa-born star.
However, the 2019/20 PSL Footballer of the Season's journey to the pinnacle of South African football and immortal status among supporters as is a far cry from his humble beginnings.
The midfielder recalls very nearly throwing in the towel early his career with Vardos FC in the ABC Motsepe League, the third tier of South African football.
"I always say that Teko [Modise] was my biggest motivation because his journey was similar to mine, both myself and him didn't come through a club or academy structures," Zwane tells KickOff.
"It's tougher in places like the ABC, you have to prove yourself each and every game. You always tell yourself that 'you know what, I don't know who is watching today but I just have to push myself.'
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"I could it say it was worse for me because I played with the likes of Mthokozisi Yende, I played with Thabo Matlaba, I played with Punch Masenamela, who all received professional contracts before me. I had fallen behind and that was the time I started doubting my talent.
"It's difficult because if you start questioning if you are meant to play football, but at the same time I remembered that you know what, everyone's time is different time and izinto zenzeka ngendlela ya Nkulunkulu (everything happens at God's pace). Let me push for another year."
"So, I stayed in the ABC, I think for another season, I pushed myself and all of a sudden, I find out that Sundowns want to sign me."
Iconic #TotalEnergiesCAFCL player. Iconic @Masandawana player. ??Check Themba Zwane's entire goal list in the competition and tell us which is your favourite. ?? pic.twitter.com/khz0PzLyD4
— TotalEnergies CAFSC ?? (@CAFCLCC) August 2, 2023
"These are the things that whenever I get a chance, I just want to sit with young players [and talk about] because I can see a lot of gents, especially in the townships, gents give up too easily.
"They think 'oh this person has made it and I haven't so, this football thing is not for me.' They then give up and it's not like that. We can be friends but it doesn't mean that we will make it at the same time.
"There are times where you will face a struggle and the struggle will test your character, that will you be able to handle this thing? It prepares you going forward because even in the PSL there are many many challenges you will find.
"That's my advice to young players - to just be a bit patient."
Having recovered from an earlier injury, Zwane is line to feature when Sundowns meet rivals Orlando Pirates at Orlando Stadium on Wednesday.
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