In this latest edition of "Story Behind The Nickname," KickOff catches up with former Polokwane City FC and Witbank Spurs defender Sibusiso "Mbuzi" Mbonani to discuss his unusual nickname.
The term "Mbuzi," which means goat in English, is often used in football to refer to players who may not excel at the game.
Now retired from professional football, the Kwaggafontein-based Mbonani is seeking opportunities to help grow the sport in his hometown.
Tell us about your unusual nickname, 'Mbuzi.’ How did it come about, and who gave it to you?
"I got it from my teammate at Witbank Spurs, Makanana Mnguni. He said I had a goatee, just like a goat, and mentioned that the way I spoke Isindebele reminded him of Ikwekwezi FM presenter Sello 'Mbuzana' Nyathi."
Which team did you transfer to Spurs from?
"I should mention that I had just joined Witbank Spurs when I was given the nickname 'Mbuzana.' They signed me from Mega Force."
Did you like it?
"Honestly, I didn't like it at all. However, the more you resist a nickname, the more it tends to stick. But I truly hated it, to be honest."
If you had the chance to choose your own nickname, what would you prefer?
"I'm actually fine with my real name, Sibusiso [laughs]. It’s not that I hate nicknames, but I believe a nickname shouldn't be chosen by oneself; it should come from others, whether it's good or bad.
"Even today, wherever I go, people call me Mbuzi. Sometimes, I even forget my real name. When someone calls out 'Sibusiso,' I might not even pay attention because there are so many Sibusisos around."
Photo by Philip Maeta/Gallo Images
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