Limpopo’s Mashele hopes for national call-up

LIMPOPO – At just 16 years old, Dyondzo Mashele, a talented footballer from Makoxa village in Giyani, is set to represent Limpopo on a national level this Saturday.

The young star, well-known as “General” among his friends, will take to the field in Gauteng with a chance to secure a spot in the South African u/17 national squad.

“General” leads on the field

Mashele, who earned his nickname through his commanding presence on the pitch, has long been regarded as a player who dictates the flow of the game.

Known for his clinical finishing and leadership, he rarely lets scoring opportunities slip away.

From local club to provincial team

His journey to the provincial team began five years ago under the guidance of coach Gezani Mashaba at Scorpions FC.

From the age of 12, Mashele was already a standout goal scorer and a defender, a player his coach could not afford to leave on the bench.

After progressing through local, district, and provincial trials, General has once again qualified to represent Limpopo, this time on the national stage in Gauteng.

A strong performance there could see him selected for the national u/17 squad.

Orlando Pirates remains long-term goal

However, playing for the national squad is not his ultimate dream, although he acknowledges it as a great opportunity.

“My long-time dream is to play for Orlando Pirates. Whatever else comes before or after that is just an addition,” he said.

Asked how he balances school and football, Mashele said discipline is key.

“You need to understand that there is time for school that you need to adhere to, as well as free time, which is mostly used for sports activities.”

Coach praises Mashele’s skill and leadership

Reflecting on his former player’s rise, coach Gezani Mashaba recalled discovering Mashele’s unique talent early on.

“I noticed General in 2022 at a tournament when he was 12 years old,” said Mashaba.

“I registered him with Scorpions FC, and in 2023, we competed in the u/13 SAFA-GGLFA League, where we finished in position three at the end of the season under his leadership as team captain.”

Mashaba described Mashele as a highly skilled defender with a rare understanding of the game.

“He knows when to pass, when to dribble, and how to hold the ball very well,” Mashaba explained.

“He can organise and command at the back, and he can also push forward and score goals.

“I don’t doubt that one of the professional teams like Orlando Pirates, Mamelodi Sundowns, or Kaizer Chiefs will sign him after the upcoming national tournament,” he said.

Community hopes high for young star

As Mashele prepares to represent his province, his community in Makoxa village will be watching closely, hopeful that their young General will lead Limpopo to glory and earn a place among the nation’s brightest young talents.