Collins 'Ntofontofo' Mbesuma came to South Africa as a 20-year-old in 2004, turning out for Kaizer Chiefs. He scored on his debut against Black Leopards, and injured himself in the process.
After spending few weeks nursing his injury, 'Ntofontofo' became an instant hit with Amakhosi fans. By the beginning of the 2004/05 season he was the darling of Amakhosi faithfuls. Every football lover bathed the Zambian with adoration. Mbesuma went on to score a stunning record of 35 goals in season for Chiefs. A feat no player has ever came close to breaking.
He was named PSL Player of the Season in 2005 as a result of his goalpoaching with Glamour Boys. After leaving PSL and subsequently returning, he became quite a journeyman in the league. He finally signed for Mpumalanga Black Aces after turning out for Mamelodi Sundowns, Moroka Swallows, Golden Arrows and Orlando Pirates.
Now leading Aces' troops, Mbesuma is on course to become the first player in the PSL to win the Lesley Manyathela Golden Boot twice. He is currently the leading goalscorer with 13 goals in PSL. Despite being over 30, Mbesuma is still more lethal than most young PSL frontmen. He is proof that form is temporary and that class is permanent.
*This article was written by a Soccer Laduma reader and reflects their opinion, not that of Soccer Laduma