Following his spectacular goal against Mamelodi Sundowns that captivated
the nation, the spotlight is firmly on Orlando Pirates’ rising star, Cemran
Dansin. Insights from his former youth coach, Masimanyane Xali, reveal the
deliberate and transformative journey that shaped the 20-year-old
midfielder.
Dansin’s path to prominence began at the SAFA/Transnet School of Excellence,
where his potential was evident from a young age. According to Xali, who
spoke exclusively to the Siya crew, Dansin joined as an Under-13 attacking
midfielder but often had to adapt his game due to fierce competition.
“Cemie came in with potential already,” Xali stated. “He was the youngest
out of all of them… sometimes, just to give him game time, we would put
him on the wing.”
However, it was a strategic position change in his matric year that unlocked
Dansin’s true potential. The coaching staff converted him to a defensive
midfielder, a move that proved to be a masterstroke.
“In Matric, we converted him to a defensive midfielder, that’s when he
actually started shining,” Xali explained. “He was on the ball a lot more,
he would command games, he could control the tempo… our game was mostly
around him.”
This new role made his talent undeniable, catching the eye of scouts at
prestigious tournaments like the Engen Under-18 and the Pirates Cup, which
ultimately led to his recruitment.
When asked if Dansin is ready to fight for his position amidst initial
doubts, Xali expressed full confidence, crediting the club’s belief in the
youngster.
“Ja, I think he’s already doing it… the coaches believe in him, the club
believes in him,” Xali said. “The few minutes he’s getting, I think they
will only make him better. But I think the best of him is still to come.”
In a humble conclusion, Xali refused to take sole credit for discovering
Dansin, emphasizing the collective effort involved in player development.
“I don’t think one person can take credit for discovering a player… There
were a lot of people who were involved in making him what he is today, same
with Cemie,” he added, highlighting the teamwork behind nurturing South
Africa’s newest football talent.
