Before securing a dream move to Kaizer Chiefs, defender Nkanyiso
Shinga’s football journey began on the dusty streets of Hammarsdale and took
a unique detour through Portugal, bypassing the South African professional
ranks entirely.
The 25-year-old left-back was discovered by the KZN Academy through open
trials, a humble beginning that led to a professional start in Europe with
Vitoria Setubal’s U19s. After a successful 2024/25 campaign where he helped
Portuguese side Alverca gain promotion, Shinga was on the verge of playing
in the prestigious Liga Portugal.
However, when Chiefs presented an offer, the Durban native opted for a
first-time experience in the PSL, choosing Naturena over the chance to face
giants like Porto and Benfica.
Bayanda Mthembu, a Technical Co-ordinator at the KZN Academy who witnessed
Shinga’s early days, recalls a dedicated and disciplined youngster. “He was
a humble boy from Umlazi, disciplined, no stories. No complaints, just
trying to work and improve,” Mthembu told the Siya crew.
While Shinga has yet to feature prominently for Amakhosi, Mthembu believes
it’s only a matter of time before his quality is revealed. “I think it’s
just a matter of getting an opportunity… I’m sure they didn’t bring him
all the way from Portugal without seeing anything.”
For fans eager to know what he offers, Mthembu painted a promising picture:
a quality, skilful left-back who is potent in attack. “Very skilful going
forward, combinations, getting into the box… a natural born player,” he
described, adding that Shinga is also “defensively strong” and that fans
will be happy with what he has to offer once he gets his chance.
