LIMPOPO – In the Mopani region, few names are as synonymous with soccer commentary as Madida and Masinga.

This charismatic duo has become a fan favourite at local matches, particularly as the official voices of the Mopani Masters Football League (MMFL).

The Herald recently caught up with them to learn more about their journey to the commentary booth.

Both men have deep roots in the sport.

M A D I D A

Madida, whose real name is Fannie Raphotle, was born in Lephepane village and later moved to Moleketla in Bolobedu.

He began playing soccer at the age of six and quickly made a name for himself. Inspired by South African soccer legend Fani Madida, the young Raphotle adopted the nickname “Madida”, a name that stuck.

In high school, Madida stood out as one of the top players and eventually caught the eye of Winners Park FC, where he played professionally.

He later became a star player for the Greater Tzaneen Municipality soccer team, even representing the team internationally in Swaziland and Lesotho during municipal games.

Off the field, he works in the municipality’s waste management department.

M A S I N G A

Masinga, whose full name is Sello Masinga, hails from Relela village. Like his partner, he showed talent from a young age, captaining his school teams and playing in the Motsepe Cup u/18 tournament. After high school, he shifted focus to refereeing, rising to level three certification.

In 2023, he began volunteering as a commentator at local matches. It was at one of Kgosihadi’s games in Relela that he met Madida, and the two quickly formed a dynamic partnership.

Since teaming up, Madida and Masinga have brought energy and excitement to various tournaments across the region. Their chemistry and engaging style recently earned them the MMFL’s award for Best Commentators of the Season.

Masinga told the Herald he dreams of one day working for a radio station. Both men share an even bigger goal: to commentate at a large stadium, perhaps one like Mbombela, which can host up to 75 000 fans. “We always say we have 75 000 fans on social media,” they joked.