In a remarkable ascent, Orlando Pirates midfielder Masindi Nemtajela has
earned his first call-up to the South African national team, a journey he
describes as happening “very fast.”
Nemtajela, who was playing on gravel pitches not long ago, is now in the
Bafana Bafana camp preparing for this weekend’s international friendly
against Zambia. Speaking to the media in Sandton, the midfielder reflected
on his unlikely path to the top.
“My journey was not easy,” Nemtajela stated. “I started at Mahlobo, as you
mentioned, playing on gravel. But things happened fast for me. I was playing
in the NFD, the following season I was in the PSL, then I was signed by
Pirates. After some months and about six games, my name is called to the
national team. I am really grateful; it shows the hard work I put in
training is paying off.”
The rapid promotion is a testament to his performances for the Buccaneers,
which have now caught the eye of head coach Hugo Broos.
Looking ahead, Nemtajela sees this call-up as an opportunity to fight for a
permanent place in the squad and a ticket to next year’s World Cup.
“I thank coach Hugo Broos for the opportunity he gave us,” he said. “I would
like to see myself fighting for the nation at the World Cup. The coach gave
us an opportunity, it’s now up to us. We got the chance.”
If he features against Zambia on Saturday, it will mark his first official
cap for Bafana Bafana, the next milestone in a career that continues to defy
expectations.
