One year ago today, Orlando Pirates striker Zakhele Lepasa was an unknown player until he converted a penalty to help TS Galaxy win the Nedbank Cup by beating Kaizer Chiefs in the final at Moses Mabhida stadium.
On 18 May 2019, Lepasa not only stole the headlines in the newspapers but also ensured Galaxy became the first National First Division side to win a major trophy in South African football.
View how Lepasa became a Galaxy and Pirates legend in 6 pictures above!
The Soweto-born striker came onto the field in the 62nd minute to replace Tshepo Chaine before keeping his nerve to convert a stoppage-time penalty, beating goalkeeper Bruce Bvuma hands down.
GOAL! Zakhele Lerato Lepasa converts from the penalty spot to break hearts. Kaizer Chiefs fans at Moses Mabhida struggling to comprehend what has just happened! This cannot be true. TS Galaxy 1 - 0 Kaizer Chiefs #NedbankCupFinal2019 #NedbankCup2019Final #NedBankCup2019 pic.twitter.com/rkuJmZMe7k
— Sporty Issues (@Sporty__Issues) May 18, 2019
Lepasa has since returned to Pirates this season and is still aiming to secure a regular place in the squad with the Mighty Buccaneers.
However, his former development coach Augusto Palacios still believes there is more to come from the 23-year-old.
"I must mention this, not to Orlando Pirates but to all PSL clubs, no young player will reach his full potential if he is not playing," Palacios tells snl24.com/kickoff.
READ: Lepasa reveals Bucs breakthrough plan
"The only way for the youngsters to show their potential is to play, otherwise they end up disappearing from the game.
"I worked with the boy before. He is a fighter and full of confidence. He showed this during a big game against Kaizer Chiefs in the cup final. He took the penalty. That shows big character.
"I believe he has great potential at Pirates and hopefully he will get his chance."
Lepasa was set to join Chippa United on loan during the past transfer window but the arrival of Josef Zinnbauer changed the Bucs management's decision after the German coach showed belief in the youngster.
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