Brackendowns football family shines on local and international stages

A football-loving family from Brackendowns, Alberton, is quickly making a name for themselves in South Africa’s vibrant sports scene.

Since moving to the area in 2017, the family has nurtured three young football prodigies: Esihle Sibeko, Nkosana Sibeko, and Thandolwethu Khanyi, each leaving their mark in various football leagues, locally, nationally, and internationally.

Esihle, the youngest at eight years old, is already proving herself as a standout player in the Rand Central Local Football Association (RCLFA) League, where she plays in a male-dominated U8 division.

Known affectionately as the ‘The Dancing Lady’ for her dazzling skills on the field, Esihle started her football journey at the tender age of five, playing for Wits Juniors Football Club.

She’s now been invited to train with some of South Africa’s top football academies, and her dreams are set on representing South Africa’s national women’s team, Banyana Banyana, at the World Cup.

“It makes me feel good that as a little girl I can play football with other boys. It gives me hope that one day I can represent South Africa in the Women’s World Cup. It means a lot to me because I get to make so many friends along the way,” said Esihle.

Her brother, Nkosana (12), has already accomplished remarkable feats in the football world.

Starting his journey with Wits Juniors at the age of four, Nkosana’s talent has led him to the prestigious Gauteng Development League (GDL) with TS Galaxy.

In 2023 he was part of the TS Galaxy squad that travelled to Türkiye for the International U12 Cup, where they played against some of the world’s top football academies, including PSG, Bayern Munich, and Chelsea.

Reflecting on his experiences, Nkosana shares, “I feel proud of how far I’ve come. Playing in Türkiye against teams like PSG and Bayern Munich was an eye-opener, and I’m focused on making it to the PSL’s first team with TS Galaxy. I want to be a role model for my little sister and other aspiring players.,”

Thandolwethu (20), the cousin of Nkosana and Esihle, has followed in their footsteps with impressive achievements.

Starting his career at Wits at age eight, Thandolwethu’s talent earned him a place in the Kappa SA Selection team at just 15, where he was named Player of the Tournament.

By 2022, he was playing for Sekhukhune United in the PSL Reserve side, and now he is back with Wits University FC in the ABC Motsepe League. His journey highlights the hard work and perseverance it takes to thrive in the competitive world of football.

As for the family’s future plans, Esihle envisions herself playing for Barcelona Ladies in the coming years.

“I want to give my best in everything I do, whether it’s football or school. It’s important to do my best so I can succeed and make my family proud,” Esihle said.

Nkosana’s goal for 2025 is clear, he’s aiming for a spot on TS Galaxy’s first team in the PSL. Meanwhile, Thando plans to renew his contract with Wits University FC in January and pursue trials with an NFD team.

Bongani Sibeko, the father of Esihle and Nkosana, said that the family’s commitment to supporting their children’s dreams has been a key factor in their success.

“Supporting your children in everything they do is the best legacy you can leave them. We make sure to balance their academics and hobbies. After school, Nkosana has extra classes, training, homework, and weekends spent with family. Esihle loves playing with her friends, and we always ensure they stay on top of their studies,” Bongani said.

The family is also gearing up for the festive season, looking forward to well-deserved family time.

“We’re planning to take a break and enjoy the holidays, but always with an eye on our next big goals. Football never stops, but we’ll make time to relax and recharge,” Thandolwethu said.