After coming off the bench to replace four-goal hero Andisiwe Mgcoyi, Sphesihle Magazi took her place in the midfield and showed everyone just why she is the next big midfield star at the continental champions. Her focused, magnetic and domineering cameo performance against Golden Ladies left everyone in awe.
Present-day midfielders are often categorised based on several attributes, but defining Sphesihle’s natural role is a little tricky. Aside from her broad skill set, the 16-year-old is a versatile, dynamic and mobile athlete who can play a box-to-box role. To replace haul-star Mgcoyi and make a solid impression speaks volumes. Many teenagers would find such expectations difficult to handle, but Sphesihle took it in her stride and delivered an immaculate showing.
Last season, Magazi made her debut for Sundowns Ladies at the age of 15 years alongside fellow youngsters such as Lumka Qhekeka and Sinenhlanhla Nkosi. That marked the beginning of an era for the youngster whose confidence has soared high since that spectacular debut dazzle.
On several occasions last season, both Coach Jerry Tshabalala and Coach Agnes Nkosi hailed the physicality and bravery of Sphesihle despite her lean physique. Her precision with the ball coupled with her technical gifts and slaloming runs means Banyana Ba Style boasts one of the most promising female youngsters in the country.
The 16-year-old who already exudes maturity in both her style of play and her personality is aiming to prove her mettle whenever called upon.
“I felt honored when I was called upon to play a part in the game against Golden Ladies considering the game was broadcasted live. It was a privilege that I was summoned off the bench considering there were some more experienced players around me. I am glad I made a statement with my performance. To be able to train and play with the continental champions gives me so much joy. I am hoping to get more opportunities to show everyone what I am capable of doing on the pitch,” the Tembisa-born youngster expressed.
Sphesihle will be hoping to build on her impressive cameo performance when Sundowns Ladies play against Durban Ladies FC in the third round of fixtures of the Hollywoodbets Super League.
The 16-year-old is a strong, smart, fast and skilful midfielder who will only continue to improve while playing for The Brazilians.
Keep it up Sphesihle!!!
