SEDIBENG.- Bafana Bafana right-winger Thapelo Maseko flew out of the country over the weekend to join his new Danish club, FC Copenhagen.

This Sebokeng-born young star joined FC Copenhagen after Mamelodi Sundowns left him wondering about his future at the club.

Maseko had to train alone after being told he was free to look elsewhere.

This was despite his standout performance at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Maseko made headlines after scoring the important goal that saw Bafana Bafana qualify for the knockout stage of this global tournament for the first time.

After this performance, Sedibeng Ster Sport was convinced that Sundowns would be eager for him to return after a season-long loan spell at AEL Limassol. However, many local and European clubs were interested in signing him.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster Sport before his departure, Maseko revealed how the two South African soccer giants were eager to secure his signature.

However, Maseko said due to his contract with Sundowns, he couldn’t join the two teams.

Maseko was not specific about which two local teams were eager to sign him; however, Sedibeng Ster Sport can reveal that Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates showed interest in this Vaal soccer star.

The only challenge was that Sundowns was not willing to sell Maseko in the domestic league, given his profile, especially after the FIFA World Cup.

“I received plenty of offers from local teams, but I had to weigh my options because Sundowns was not prepared to sell me locally.

I had to respect their decision because I was still under contract with the club, and I’m happy that I finally found a club.

I knew that it wouldn’t be long before I found the club.

He was warmly welcomed!

I am grateful for what the club has done for me, especially allowing me to pursue my soccer career abroad. I’m looking forward to establishing myself in Denmark,” said Maseko before his departure. Maseko was warmly welcomed by the club’s officials and supporters at the Denmark Airport, waving the South African flag! 

Maseko started his amateur football career with Vaal Juventus FC back here in Vaal—the club campaigns in the SAFA Sedibeng Hollywoodbets Men’s Regional League. But before Maseko joined SuperSport United, he was on trial at Orlando Pirates, but things didn’t turn out well for him.

His development coach recommended him to SuperSport United coach, by then Gavin Hunt. This is where Maseko established himself as one of the most promising young stars in the PSL. This was after SuperSport United promoted him to their senior team from their DStv Diski Challenge team.

Speaking to Sedibeng Ster Sport, Maseko’s development coach, Isaac Mphasane, said he has no doubts that Maseko is going to make it big in Denmark.