Soccer legend spotted in Tembisa
Despite his age, he was seen showing off his tactics at the Hospital View Sports Grounds on Sunday.
Mr Marcus Mphafudi, who was born and bred in Tembisa, is a football legend in South Africa.
He used to ply his trade for Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs.
Mr Mphafudi (49), who still regards soccer as the best form of exercise, is currently playing as a midfielder for the local team, Genuis FC. Despite his age, he was seen showing off his tactics with the likes of Thato Maleka, Cavin “Shakes” Sibeko, Pollen Ndlanya and Jerry Skhosana, at the Hospital View Sports Grounds on Sunday.
“Sport helps me to keep busy and fit at all times. I always enjoyed playing football, ever since I was 13 year old,” said Mr Mphafudi.
He started playing football in Alexandra.
“My talent was spotted by a soccer fan when I was playing for Alexander All Blacks FC. I was then introduced to Moroka Swallows for training in 1989. That was the beginning of my future as a professional soccer player,” said Mr Mphafudi.
During his time as a professional football player, Mr Mphafudi also played for Manning Rangers and Amazulu.
“I eventually quit football because of my injuries and age,” said Mr Mphafudi.
When asked what he has learnt in the field of football, Mr Mphafudi said he learnt discipline and respect.
According to Mr Mphafudi, there is a lot of talent in Tembisa, but the players are challenged by the lack of soccer pitches.
“Most of the development teams in the area lack the resources that will enable them to show off their talent. Sometimes I don’t blame the nyaope boys for hanging out on the street because they have nothing to do and nobody is willing to help them.”
He is encouraging young people to consider sports and to go to school as education is the key to success.
