When your mentor is Bafana Bafana’s most capped player, Aaron “The Axe” Mokoena, expectations are naturally high. But Mpho Nkadimeng did more than just meet them – she carved her name into Engen Knockout Challenge folklore.
Representing the SAFA Academy, the elegant yet ruthless midfielder walked away with the Midfielder of the Tournament award after a string of dominant performances in the heart of the pitch.
“She’s an assist machine, a dribbling wizard, and her arrogance on the ball makes her feel like a young Linda Motlhalo,” said respected scout Nthabeleng “Dunga” Modiko. “She doesn’t just play through opponents – she embarrasses them.”
With two goals to her name and countless chances created, Nkadimeng dictated play with maturity beyond her years. Her performance in the semifinals, where she toyed with defenders before providing a no-look assist, was one of the standout moments of the tournament.
“She eliminates players with ease,” Modiko added. “Opponents won’t forget her name any time soon.”
Previously turning out for Entokozweni, Nkadimeng already boasts international experience, having donned national colours at the COSAFA Region 5 Games with the South Africa U17s. But her Engen display was her announcement to a wider audience – she’s not just a name on a team sheet anymore. She’s the name.
And in a poetic twist, her coach is none other than “The Axe” himself. But while Aaron Mokoena was known for hard tackles and no-nonsense defending, Mpho’s artistry in midfield offers a different kind of edge.
SCOUT REPORT
Coach Nthabeleng “Dunga” Modiko
What stood out to you the most about Mpho?
Mpho is definitely an elite player, she is able to eliminate players with creative touches and passes dished. She is an assist machine and commands the midfield very well. She created good scoring chances for her team and even landed 2 goals for herself. Already boasting international experience to her name as part of the SA u17 player, her dominance and impact was seen in the games, and opponents will never forget her name.
Which professional footballer in South Africa or abroad does she play like?
She’s such a talent that it would be amiss of me to not see the young player as an upcoming Linda Motlhalo. She’s a dribbling wizard and her arrogance on the ball is that of a well-oiled machine. Mpho will create a goal situation where none is available.
