In anticipation of this week's 1413rd edition of Soccer Laduma, we preview some of the features included. The latest edition will be available at your nearest outlet on Thursday, 27th February 2025.
KAIZER CHIEFS
Nearly seven years after Tsepo Masilela left Kaizer Chiefs, it could be argued that he still hasn't been truly replaced. In the recent off-season, Sfiso Hlanti departed, and two left backs were recruited in Bongani Sam and Bradley Cross. So why is this area proving such a problem for the club? Why has Nasreddine Nabi bemoaned his lack of a natural left fullback? In this feature, we take a look at the coach's comments and assess what the future might hold in this crucial position in modern football.
STEVE KOMPHELA
During his heyday at QwaQwa Stars, Steve Komphela was a formidable defender with the ability to read the game, break down opposition attacks, and a knack for taking shots on target. When he was appointed as the Bafana Bafana captain in October 1992, to lead the team in the 1994 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Congo, this demonstrated the belief the national team coaches had in his leadership qualities. These days, Komphela shares his knowledge as an assistant coach at Mamelodi Sundowns, where he works alongside coach Miguel Cardoso. In this interview with Soccer Laduma, the 57-year-old coach speaks about his longevity in the game and addresses the youth development focus within the PSL.
SIYA SPECIAL
Orlando Pirates have raised eyebrows with their surprising decision not to sign any players during the recent January transfer window. Despite being one of the busiest teams in South African football, competing in the Betway Premiership, Nedbank Cup, and the CAF Champions League, the Buccaneers opted for a quiet window, releasing players rather than reinforcing their squad. With injuries, suspensions, and squad depth concerns emerging, was Pirates' decision a bold show of faith or a miscalculated risk? The Siya crew investigates.
Also In Issue 1413…
Jabulani Shongwe
There are a lot of footballers who you might think are no longer playing. Players such as Buhle Mkhwanazi, Thato Mokeke, Nkanyiso Zungu, and Jabulani Shongwe are all playing their football in the Motsepe Foundation Championship. In the last few years, Shongwe has played in the second tier of South African football, starting at Royal AM, which was followed by stints at Venda FA and Pretoria Callies before joining his current club, Upington City. Soccer Laduma got in touch with the former Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder to talk about playing for Upington City, having to take a salary cut, and why it's not an embarrassment for any player to play in the second tier of South Africa.
International Feature
Mamelodi Sundowns will be seeking to put behind them the disappointment of 2016 when they participate in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup tournament in the United States. The newly revamped tournament marks a groundbreaking expansion in global football. For the first time, the competition will feature 32 teams, increasing its scope and level of competition. However, in order to progress to the next round, Miguel Cardoso's side will have their work cut out for them in Group F, where they will take on Borussia Dortmund, Fluminense FC, and Ulsan Hyundai FC.
Revolving Column
This week we hear from former Bafana Bafana captain Aaron Mokoena on the African Nations Championship (CHAN).
Siyagobhoza
In this week's edition of the popular Siyagobhoza section, Orlando Pirates put Monnapule Saleng in the shop window, there is news on why Sipho Mbule's contract extension benefits Sundowns, and Manqoba Mngqithi is weighing his options.
Grab a copy of the latest edition of Soccer Laduma at your nearest outlet tomorrow. Don't miss out!
