EX-LEOPARD STAR JOINS SA COSMOS

MBABANE – His dream to play outside the country has finally come true. That is 16-year-old Lungelo Simelane, who on January 17 officially joined South Africa Jomo Cosmos Under-17 squad.

According to Simelane’s former coach, Sibusiso Fakudze, it was Eswatini soccer legend, Absalom ‘Scara’ Thindwa, who saw a potential in the young boy during the Eswatini Royal Insurance Corporation Under-13 school ball games.
“Thindwa was impressed by Simelane’s talent and he told me that he would help the young boy secure a move to South Africa. He eventually came back to us and told us that he had spoken to officials from Kaizer Chiefs and Jomo Cosmos. We thought the move would take forever to materialise but last month, the deal was sealed,” Fakudze said.

determined

The coach said he was happy for the young boy as he eventually moved to join Cosmos. “He is very passionate and a determined person. He is also a good listener and willing to learn and explore new ventures. I might have groomed him but his parents and hard work have propelled his SA move. He is destined for great heights,” he said.
He also told the Times Sports Desk that he scored on his debut when Cosmos were playing against Wits last Saturday.

“They won 4-1 and he scored one goal and provided an assist in the other goal. We are all happy for him because he is our product. He joined Leopard when he was 10 years old.He first played for the under 13, then the under 15s and 17s,” said the Leopard development mentor.

The youngster said it was like a dream come true.
“I always wanted to play in professional leagues like in the Premier Soccer League. This is a good start for me as I believe I can have what it takes to play in competitive league. I want to thank my coach, Sibusiso Fakudze, who has been very helpful through my football career. I also want to thank my parents and teachers at Ngwane Park High School,” Simelane said. He also said he was excited to score on his debut game.

Post your comment

Your name:

Your e-mail address:

Add your comments:

Please enter the code you see in the image:

Image:

Code: