Keeper hat-trick
Former Black Leopards goalkeeper, Azwindini Maphaha, has signed a six-month contract with Magesi FC last week Friday.
LIMPOPO- Maphaha (32), and the likes of Humphrey Khoza, Ernot Dzaga, Joshua Obaje, Nkosiyabo Xakane, Victor Kahmuka, Ayanda Mtshali, and Thulani Ntshingila, parted ways with Lidoda Duvha when the team was relegated to the National First Division in 2013.
Former Black Leopards goalkeeper, Azwindini Maphaha, punches the ball away from the danger zone during their clash against Pretoria University FC.
“When Leopards dumped me it felt like the end of my soccer career but I joined Sevutsa Star in a six-month contract before the team could be bought out by millionaire couple Shauwn and S’bu Mpisane, who relocated the club to Durban.
“I didn’t relocate to Durban with the club, instead I tried my luck in Swaziland and was signed by Mbabane Swallows where I unfortunately missed action due to an injury,” Maphaha said.
“I returned and signed with Highlands Park in 2015 which was playing in the Vodacom League before the club could be promoted to the NFD. I moved and joined Dolphin FC in Limpopo where I played four games. Now I signed with Magesi and I’m very happy,” he added.
When Maphaha is not on the field he can be found relaxing with his best friend, Khakhathi Murida Tshisikule, who is a respected Venda artist.
He also helps to sell his friend’s CDs and T-shirts in the Vhembe district when he gets the chance.
“Murida is a real friend, he has been with me when I was jobless. He filled my car with petrol to move easily when looking for jobs.
“I love him because when dark clouds were hanging over me, he is the one who convinced me to get spiritual support.
“He took me to the Obert Ministry of All Mission for a prayer and from there things are going well. His song Muvhuya no u wa hawe u do vhuya a vuwa always lifts my spirits. I like the messages his music portrays and I sometimes back him up on stage during his gigs,” Maphaha explained.
Other people without whom he said his success would not have been possible are Tsumbedzo Matshivha, his son Luvhengo Maphaha, his mother and the in-laws who “always tell me I’m the winner”, and his fans.
Magesi FC CEO, John Mathibe, confirmed they signed Maphaha along with adding that the team now has three goalkeepers for this season.
