Title: The Legend of Shangri-La

Provider: NetEnt

Reels: 6

Rows: 5

Paylines: Cluster Pays

RTP: 96.59%

Max win: 5,000x

Volatility: Low to Medium

Min/max bet: 0.01/200.00 (depending on chosen level and coin value)

The Legend of Shangri-La by NetEnt

A mythical place of peace and prosperity. A hidden kingdom of wealth and wisdom. A fantastic real money online slot right here at Play.co.za, filled with great Cluster Pays mechanics, Giant Symbols, Free Spins, Reel Nudges, and more.

Theme

Shangri-La is one of those mysterious ‘lost kingdoms’ like Atlantis that fill our world with places of mystery and magic, and NetEnt have brough a beautifully crafted real money online slot to Players based on this fantastical place in The Legend of Shangri-La.

The Legend of Shangri-La takes Players to a land of spiritual peace and tranquility while also creating a world where some big wins can bring great wealth. Full of transcendental symbols and with animal spirit gurus like Monkey, Elephant, and Tiger to lead Players on the path to wakefulness, the overwhelming feeling from The Legend of Shangri-La is one of peace and prosperity.

Very Asian in its symbols, artwork and music, The Legend of Shangri-La still has the necessary features that bring thrills to Players, with loads of features that will get the pulse racing even as the tranquil setting eases us into a state of meditation.

Join the Red Panda monk as Players search for the path to enlightenment and some big wins with the Cluster Pays mechanic where Players need to group 9x or more symbols together to land a win. Add in Symbol Substitutions and Free Spins and Giant Symbols and The Legend of Shangri-La may just have a little more tense action than a game with such a serene theme may offer on first glance.

Beautifully designed, loaded with features, and with thrills aplenty, The Legend of Shangri-La is a paradise for the Play.co.za punter.

Graphics, sound, and animation

The Legend of Shangri-La is absolutely gorgeous. The designers at NetEnt have created a very Asian-styled version of peaceful paradise with Cherry Blossom trees and tranquil waterways in the background and plenty of stunning symbols like koi, dragonflies, and butterflies. The main symbols are three gurus drawn with amazing detail and filled with a sense of quiet purpose. Triggering Free Spins will take Players higher into the mountains where the action takes place in a snow-flecked scene outside a stone monastery.

It really is beautifully done, and the gameplay mechanics make it all very quick and exciting.

The symbols themselves reflect the search for tranquility. Pretty low paying symbols are outshone by the exquisitely details gurus who hold the higher values.

Symbols from lowest to highest paying: Koi, Dragonfly, Butterfly, Flower (same value); Monkey Guru, Elephant Guru (same value); Tiger Guru.

Remember, the Cluster Pays mechanic means players need to group 9x or more of the same symbol together in order to get a win. The more symbols in the Cluster, the bigger the win.

There are two other symbols that Players should look out for:

The Parchment with Dragon and Mountains is the Free Spins symbol and awards Free Spins.

The Green Orb in a Gold Box is the Symbol Substitution symbol. 

A theme-appropriate, Asian-inspired string and drums soundtrack plays under the game and adds to the serenity of the theme perfectly. There are also some odd little noises and effects that can bring a little fun to the game.

Smooth animation and great graphics are what drive the beauty of The Land of Shangri-La and the NetEnt studio has done an unbelievable job of combining the cuteness of the animal characters with the tranquil setting and the serene theme itself.

Shangri-La may be a mythical place, but NetEnt ensures that us Players can still take a trip there and visit – and play – any time we like.

Gameplay

The Legend of Shangri-La is a 6-reel, 5-row real money online slot with a Cluster Pays mechanic. A symbol is part of the Cluster if it is vertically or horizontally adjacent to the same symbol. 9 or more of the same symbols in a Cluster will award a win. The more symbols that make up the Cluster, the bigger the wins.

Minimum bet is 0.10 and maximum is 200.00. Players should be aware that their choice of Coin Value and Bet Level will affect their bet total for each spin. Bet Levels go from Level 1 to Level 10 and playing Max Bet will mean a Level 10 Bet at a Coin Value of 2.00 will cost 200.00 for each spin.

RTP is posted at 96.59%. The game has a low to medium volatility rating meaning lots of frequent smaller wins.

The max win is a very not serene 10,000x the stake.

Features

NetEnt have put a lot of thought into adding some great features to The Legend of Shangri-La. Players can expect Free Spins, Symbol Substitutions, and Reel Nudges to help them get those bigger wins.

Free Spins

Landing 3x or more Dragon Parchment symbols, fully or partially, appearing anywhere on the reels, will trigger Free Spins. 3x symbols awards 5x Free Spins, 4x symbols awards 6x Free Spins, 5x symbols awards 7x Free Spins, and 6x symbols awards 8x Free Spins.

Free Spins symbols can be Nudged, and random Substitution symbols will be added to and removed during each spin.

Reel Nudge

If 2x Free Spins symbols land on the reels and another lands just outside the reel area, the Red Panda Monk may Nudge the reel to bring the symbol into view and trigger the Free Spins round.

Giant Symbols

Some of the Guru Symbols may land as Giant Symbols that cover 2 places and count as 2 symbols.

Substitution Symbols

The Substitution Symbol transforms into the adjacent symbol that creates the highest possible winning combo in a cluster.

Random Substitutions

The Red Panda Monk may randomly activate the Substitution Symbol to create bigger wins if two Clusters are close to each other.

Sticky Re-spins

If at least 2x Clusters of the same symbol appear on the reels, the Sticky Re-spins feature may be activated whereby the feature symbols stick to the reels while the remaining symbol re-spin to try and land bigger Clusters and wins.

Play The Legend of Shangri-La at Play.co.za today

The Legend of Shangri-La is a superbly detailed and feature-rich real money online slot that Players will absolutely love. Incredible detail and artwork, loads of bonuses, interesting characters, and a serene are perfect for relaxing and getting out of the business of modern life, and highly recommended by Play.co.za

Try it for free in Demo mode or play for Real Money right here at Play.co.za.

Title: Pirate’s Plenty

Provider: Red Tiger

Reels: 5 (6 when the Treasure Reel is unlocked)

Rows: 3

Paylines: 20

RTP: 96.12%

Max win: 5,000x

Volatility: High

Min/max bet: 0.20/20.00

Pirate’s Plenty by Red Tiger

A bountiful treasure of bonuses and big wins awaits those who sail the stormy seas of Play.co.za in this swashbuckling real money online slot from Red Tiger. It’s adventure on the high seas, with plenty of features, great win potential, and awesome artwork.

Theme

Pirate’s Plenty is a fantastic example of the piratical treasure-hunting theme. It’s one that is very popular with online casino fans, likely because any chaser of games of chance has a bit of the ol’ pirate blood in them.

And ZA Players will be thrilled to discover that Red Tiger have gone all out to bring this salty tale to our shores with incredible playability, and some of the coolest graphics this side of a Pirates of the Caribbean film.

There are plenty of nods to the classics – bottles of rum, smoking pistols, cannons, and grinning skulls – but it’s in the smaller details that Pirate’s Plenty shines. The mischievous monkey, the addition of a treasure map that unlocks an extra reel, the gold doubloons that make the low paying royals a part of the experience rather than a filler for symbols, they all elevate Pirate’s Plenty and create an amazing, immersive, and thrilling online slots game for passionate pirate Players.

Small details like the dagger pinning the map in place, the dingy cabin in the background, the little ships in the bottles, and the way the setting changes to a ghostly underwater shipwreck during the Oceans Spins bonus just create a truly wonderful and exciting online casino game.

Graphics, sound, and animation

The graphics are spectacular. Cartoon-style imagery and artwork done in a super hi-def style, sharp and crisp visuals with incredible depth, tiny details mixed in with over-the-top objects from the worlds of pirate lore – it is one of the most impressive displays of creativity from an already impressive international studio,

And it creates a world rather than a game, a place where Players will be lost in the waves and the lifestyle of the bandits of the Seven Seas.

The symbols themselves are absolutely beautiful, and feature details like the royals being set in gold doubloons and smoke quietly streaming from the pistols and cannons.

Rather than being placeholders for lining up wins, the symbols in Pirate’s Plenty are an integral part of the experience.

Symbols from lowest to highest paying: Clubs; Diamonds; Hearts; Spades; Rum Bottle; Pistols; Cannon; Pirate Hat; Skull.

The mischievous Monkey is Wild and substitutes for all paying symbols. Wild Monkey can also appear and steal all low paying symbols triggering a re-spin with high paying symbols only.

Royals can become Wilds that substitute for all paying symbols during Ocean Spins.

Ocean Spins symbol is the Scatter.

Wild Ships are Giant Wilds with possible Multipliers when Treasure Reel is unlocked.

A jaunty sea shanty keeps the interest high, and the sounds fit superbly with this modern take on the pirate theme.

The animation is incredible. From all the small details like the drifting smoke in the cabin to the bubbles rising from the wrecked galleon, and especially the small hints we get of the ship’s Wheel and the ghostly Captain to tease the bonuses, the Red Tiger design team can take a bow knowing they have created a spectacularly immersive online slot for our Playing pleasure.

Play.co.za Players will find themselves enthralled and entertained with Pirate’s Plenty, a highly recommended online and mobile slot from Red Tiger.

Gameplay

Pirate’s Plenty is a 5-reel, 3-row online and mobile slot with 20 paylines. During the Treasure Reel bonus round an extra reel is added to make Pirate’s Plenty a 6x3 online slot.

Minimum bet is 0.20 and maximum is 20.00. RTP is posted at 96.12%. The game has a high volatility rating with a max win of over 5,000x the stake.

Features

If there is anything that can be rated higher than the artwork and design on Pirate’s Plenty, it’s the insane features. When Red Tiger say Plenty, they mean it. Wilds, Expanding Wilds, Symbol Replacement, Mini Games, it’s all happening on the good ship Red Tiger.

Wild

The Monkey is Wild and substitutes for all paying symbols.

Wild Monkey

Wild Monkey steals all low paying symbols, triggering a re-spin with high paying symbols only.

Ocean Spins

Land 3x or more Ocean’s Spins symbols to trigger 10x Free Spins. During Ocean’s Spins Free Spins, the ghostly Captain can appear with keys that unlock the three Sunken Treasure Chests at the top of the screen to reveal extra Free Spins and turn low-paying royal symbols Wild.

The Sunken Treasure

3x keys from the ghost Captain will unlock each Sunken Treasure chest, revealing extra Free Spins and turning one of the low paying symbols Wild.

Treasure Reel

Collect map symbols to unlock Treasure Reel. Each map will add to the ships journey on the treasure map until it reaches the X-spot. This will unlock an extra reel to turn Pirate’s Plenty into a 6x3 grid.

Wild Ships

During Treasure Reel, Ships in Bottles Giant Wilds are active that can cover an entire reel. They substitute for all paying symbols and can offer 2x, 3x, and 5x Multipliers or no Multiplier at all. Pay attention to the ships and the multipliers as they feature some amazing artwork!

Play Pirate’s Plenty at Play.co.za today

Pirate’s Plenty is an absolutely brilliant, immersive online and mobile slot from Red Tiger. It is exceptional in all aspects from artwork to gameplay to the bountiful bonuses and features on offer. A highly entertaining and highly recommended online slots game for our Players.

Try it for free in Demo mode or play for Real Money right here at Play.co.za.

Title: Dragon’s Fire

Provider: Red Tiger

Reels: 5

Rows: 4

Paylines: 40

RTP: 96.07%

Max win: 10,000x

Volatility: High

Min/max bet: 0.20/10.00

Dragon’s Fire by Red Tiger

Challenge the fiery dragon to rack up some big wins at Play.co.za with Dragon’s Fire from Red Tiger. This stunning online slot features the scaly lizards of legend and lore as Player’s explore their dark crypts in search of riches and the golden hoard. But watch for the beast’s fiery breath as it may reveal some hot bonuses.

Theme

Dragon’s Fire is a fantasy themed online slot from Red Tiger that features fire-breathing dragons and the eggs they are protecting. Set in a dark and gold coin-strewn crypt, Players will be spinning to line up the jewel-like eggs and gorgeous dragons while the main fiery dragon looks on.

This fiery dragon randomly takes flight to grip the top of the screen and rain down fiery breath to reveal the features.

It’s a familiar theme that Red Tiger have brought to life with stunning artwork and engaging but high volatility gameplay.

It’s a monster of a game with some monster payouts up to 10,000x the Player’s stake.

Graphics, sound, and animation

Dragon’s Fire graphics are crisp and gorgeous, a feature of any online slots games from Red Tiger, and work equally well across desktop and mobile. Attention to detail is huge, from the fine scales on the golden egg to the way the dragon breathes as it sleeps while waiting to be awakened. There are even details that could be overlooked unless Players are paying attention, like the way the small pattern at the bottom of the screen is actually the dragon’s tail – only noticed when the dragon takes flight.

It's small touches like this that make Dragon’s Fire, and Red Tiger games in general, such a visual pleasure.

The symbols in Dragon’s Fire are all dragon-related with the lower paying symbols being dragon’s’ eggs and the higher paying symbols being the dragons themselves.

Symbols from lowest to highest paying: Purple Egg; Emerald Egg; Ruby Egg; Gold Egg; Purple Dragon; Emerald Dragon; Ruby Dragon; Gold Dragon; Dragon’s Eye.

Wild symbol is Wild and substitutes for all symbols.

Free Spins symbol is the Scatter and triggers Free Spins rounds.

One of the standout features in Dragon’s Fire is the background effects. The music is theme appropriate with a soaring orchestral sound that is very fantasy based. But, once again, the small details make a big difference. While Players take a rest from spinning, they may start noticing some very heavy breathing in the room. This is the dragon at rest, and the bellows-like sound of its lungs as it breathes in and out were a fantastic little element that make Dragon’s Fire all the more realistic.

Animations are smooth with enough movement and motions to keep players engrossed in the gameplay.

Dragon’s Fire is a beautifully designed and animated online slot with some very interesting details and great features.

Gameplay

Dragon’s Fire is a 5-reel, 4-row online and mobile slot with 40 paylines.

Minimum bet is 0.20 and maximum is 10.00. RTP is posted at 96.07% and the game has a high volatility rating. Max win is over 10,000s the Player stake.

Features

Dragon’s Fire has some interesting features and play including Wilds and Free Spins that are allocated with a pick and play game.

Wilds

The Wild symbols is Wild and substitutes for all symbols.

Free Spins

Free Spins are triggered by landing 3x or more Free Spins symbols on any reels. Free Spins can be re-triggered during Free Spins rounds by landing an additional 3x or more Free Spins symbols on any reels.

The number of Free Spins awarded is chosen during a Pick and Win style game where Players choose from three dragons. The chosen dragon will reveal the number of Free Spins awarded.

Dragon’s Egg Multiplier

To the right of the screen is a large red egg in a golden holder. This is the win multiplier. Every consecutive win will increase the win multiplier up to a maximum of 50x. Once the Player’s winning run comes to an end, the multiplier will reset to zero.

Dragon’s Eye Boost

A giant dragon’s eye can appear randomly during a winning round to boost the Dragon’s Egg Multiplier up to 10x in a single round.

Fire Blast

The sleeping dragon will awake randomly during base gameplay to fly off, land on the top of the screen, and blast fire down the reels leaving Wild Reels or Free Spins behind.

Play Dragon’s Fire at Play.co.za today

Play.co.za brings Players a fiery and hot online slot from Red Tiger, one that has amazing details and the potential for big wins. Fantasy themed and with scorching features, Dragon’s Fire is an exciting and immersive online slot sure to get the pulse pounding.

Try it for free in Demo mode or play for Real Money right here at Play.co.za.

Title: Excalibur

Provider: NetEnt

Reels: 5

Rows: 3

Paylines: 20

RTP: 95.08%

Max win: 10,000 coins

Volatility: Low to Medium

Min/max bet: 0.01/80.00 (dependent on chosen coin value and bet level)

Excalibur by NetEnt

Take a journey with Play.co.za and NetEnt to a mythical medieval kingdom and join the legendary story of King Arthur, Lancelot, Guinevere, the Knights of the Round Table – and the fabled sword Excalibur. This story of heroic actions, betrayal, magic, and fate is gorgeously realised with illustration-style artwork, feudal crests, and a soundtrack that will put you in the great halls of the castles of feudal-era England and reawaken the wonders that have made the tales of King Arthur last through history.

Theme

Excalibur is a beautiful slot that puts Players right in the middle of one of the most famous stories of all time, the tales of King Arthur, first true King of the Britons. While history has never managed to pin down the real King Arthur (was he a Roman soldier, a Welsh nobleman, or a lord from the kingdoms of Anglia?), the stories have endured through the ages and NetEnt’s amazing online slot has done a fantastic job of bringing it to life on the reels of online slots fans.

All the major characters have a place on the reels: the great King Arthur, his wife Guinevere, her lover Lancelot, the magician Merlin, the evil Morgana le Fay, and the Lady of the Lake – a water fay central to the tale and keeper of the mystic blade Excalibur.

The tale of King Arthur is steeped in heroic deeds, epic quests, and tales of gallantry but the most famous story is the love between King Arthur and Queen Guinevere, and the sinister plots that drive her into the arms of Lancelot, Arthur’s best and most beloved knight.

It’s a complex tale, one of betrayal, love, magic, murder, and the rise and fall of the King that united and ruled Britain – with the sword Excalibur playing a central part of the legend – and NetEnt have done an incredible job of bringing it all to life for the playing pleasure of online casino fans.

And now it’s time for Players to lift the sword Excalibur and become a part of this enduring legend.

Graphics, sound, and animation

Excalibur has a beautiful illustration look and feel, almost as if it’s taken from the pages of a storybook. The royals all have superb coats of arms while the characters are stunningly drawn to give a sense of their inner personas – the regal King Arthur, the lovers Lancelot and Guinevere, the mysterious Merlin, and the wicked Morgana le Fay, for example.

NetEnt have done their usual splendid job of taking a theme and using their designers to make it as real as possible for the Players. All the little details like the Celtic-inspired patterns, the flickering candles, and the pageantry of the crests and shields really set the tone for the online slot. And the music and background sounds just make it even more immersive.

Excalibur’s symbols are all taken straight from the tales of King Arthur. Apart from all the major characters, we have minor royals decked out in the pageantry of Medieval England, the iconic sword Excalibur, and even the chalice of the Holy Grail!

The coats of arms are the low paying royals while the stars of the story line up for the bigger wins.

Symbols from low to highest paying: 10; J, Q, K (same value); A; Knight on Horseback; Morgana, Lady of the Lake (same value); Lancelot & Guinevere, Merlin (same value); King Arthur.

Excalibur is the wild and substitutes for all symbols except Golden Wilds and Scatters.

Golden Excalibur is the Golden Wild and substitutes for all symbols except Scatters.

The Holy Grail is the Scatter.

The sound effects in Excalibur really elevate the online slots game. Pipes and trumpets and drums, crowd noises and the sounds of revelry, they all combine to add a great sense of realism and history to the game. And they certainly get the pulse pounding when you hit the Free Spins and the drums start beating out a rapid tempo. Brilliant use of sound!

Animations are smooth and keep Players engaged in the action throughout.

Excalibur is a great step back in time and myth for online slots players and a superb way of bringing the legend of King Arthur to life.

Gameplay

Excalibur is a 5-reel, 3-row online and mobile slot with 20 paylines.

Minimum bet is 0.01 and maximum is 80.00. Players should be aware that Excalibur has a variable bet rate in that Players can choose to bet from level 1 line to level 4 and this will affect their total bet amount depending on the chosen coin value.

RTP is posted at 95.08% which is quite low, and the game has a low to medium volatility rating. Max win is 10,000 coins although there is mention of the potential of hitting 158,680 coins if everything possible goes the Player’s way.

Features

Excalibur has a relatively small number of features for such an ornate game. Player’s will be looking to hit the Wilds and Golden Wilds to rack up win amounts and the Scatters to trigger Free Spins.

Wilds

Excalibur is the wild and substitutes for all symbols except Golden Wilds and Scatters. Wins with regular Excalibur Wilds are doubled and landing 5x Excalibur Wilds will award a 10,000 coins win.

Golden Excalibur Wilds

Golden Excalibur is the Golden Wild and substitutes for all symbols except Scatters. Golden Wilds pay 4x the symbol value except for regular Wilds.

Holy Grail Scatters

The wine-filled Holy Grail chalice is the Scatter. Landing 3x Holy Grails will trigger 10x Free Spins. 4x will trigger 20x Free Spins, and 5x will trigger 30x Free Spins. Free Spins pay wins x3.

Play Excalibur at Play.co.za today

Excalibur is a gorgeous journey through myth and legend and NetEnt have brought a colourful and exciting version to Play.co.za. Players who enjoy magic, mystery, romance, myth, or just exciting gameplay will love this amazing online slot.

Rise, Sir Spin-a-lot, your kingdom needs you!

Try it for free in Demo mode or play for Real Money right here at Play.co.za.

Title: Dragon’s Luck

Provider: Red tiger

Reels: 5

Rows: 3

Paylines: 10

RTP: 96.24%

Max win: 1,380x

Volatility: Low to Medium

Min/max bet: 0.20/500.00

Dragon’s Luck by Red Tiger

Play.co.za bring a distinct Oriental theme to Players with Red Tiger’s Dragon’s Luck online slot. This classic theme is given a shiny makeover and some great gameplay in a modern update to one of the world’s most popular themes and styles. It’s a fiery fest of coins that will appeal to experienced ZA Players and beginners alike.

Theme

Dragon’s Luck is very much set in an Oriental theme with gorgeous mountain and forest backgrounds and a dragon-sided pagoda as the main play area. It’s a well-known theme that has been given a stunning modern update with crisp and sharp details and engaging gameplay from Red Tiger.

South African fans of Asian-style gaming will love the gorgeous artwork and the pagoda with its fire-breathing dragons will have Players looking for the Mega Coin feature to trigger the flames that will heat up their wins. With an intriguing soundtrack, tons of Asian-inspired visuals like the pagoda, the calligraphy-style royals, and the chrysanthemum and koi fish symbols, Players are sure to feel like their luck is on the rise.

While Dragon’s Luck is quite basic in terms of gameplay, the stunning scenery and visuals and smooth operation are appealing to both pros and beginners, and this online and mobile slot is a welcome addition to the Play.co.za roster of Oriental slots games.

Graphics, sound, and animation

Dragon’s Luck is a gorgeous example of Asian/Oriental artwork in the online slots world. Red Tiger have spent their time creating a delightfully visual online and mobile slot that truly captures the essence of the mysterious East and brings it into crisp and clear life. The graphics are superb with amazing attention to detail.

From the lovingly realized backgrounds to the many lucky objects that make up the symbols to the brushwork-style calligraphy of the royals, Dragon’s Luck is a perfect example of how this popular theme can live on our screens. But it’s the amazing pagoda and its dragon-entwined pillars that steal the show.

Dragon’s Luck features plenty of theme-appropriate symbols drawn with great care. From the low paying royals to the higher paying symbols, the artwork and design is clear and eye-catching with lots of nods to traditional lucky objects.

Symbols from lowest to highest paying: 10, J, Q (same value); K, A (same value); Chrysanthemum; Koi; Doll; 138 Coin.

The Dragon Coin is a Wild that changes to random mystery symbols.

The Mega Coin is a Wild that can cover up to a 3x3 grid.

The Dragon’s Luck soundtrack is very theme appropriate although not very original. Strings and gongs are dominant and fit well with the theme.

Animation is smooth and fast, and the small movements of the symbols keep Player engagement high – but the uber cool fire breathing dragons when you hit the Mega Coins are a win!

Red Tiger have given Play.co.za Players a very simple online and mobile slots game, but they have used their design skills to make it very engaging and a great game for fans of dragons and the Orient.

Gameplay

Dragon’s Luck is a 5-reel, 3-row online and mobile slot with 10 paylines.

Minimum bet is 0.20 and maximum is 500.00. For Players who enjoy Red Tiger’s Dragon’s Luck, there are also a few variants that can be played – Dragon’s Luck Power Reels with a 10x6 layout, Dragon’s Luck Deluxe with Free Spins and an increased max win, and Dragon’s Luck Megaways with cascading symbols and 117,649 ways to win.

RTP is posted at 96.24% but this is variable. The game has a low to medium volatility rating. Max win is 1,380x the Player’s stake.

Features

There are not a lot of bonus features on Dragon’s Luck, but the Mega Coin bonus can add up to some big wins, especially if combined with the Dragon Coin Wilds.

Dragon Coin Wild

The Dragon Coin is a Wild that transforms into random symbols.

Dragon Breath Increases

The two dragons on the pillars can breathe fire to increase wins – especially during Mega Coin bonus.

Mega Coin

Mega Coin can cover from 3x symbols to a 3x3 grid and transforms into a random symbol to increase win chances. It can also combine with Dragon Coins for even bigger opportunities.

138 Coin

The 138 Coin is the highest paying symbol and pays out the max win of 1,380x if a Player lands 5x 138 Coins.

Play Dragon’s Luck at Play.co.za today

Dragon’s Luck is a classic online and mobile slot from Red Tiger. Classic theme, classic gameplay, classic style. But it is beautifully rendered to give Players an extra immersion into the Oriental world of luck and art and is a very engaging game for Players of all levels of slots experience.

Try it for free in Demo mode or play for Real Money right here at Play.co.za.

Title: EggOMatic

Provider: NetEnt

Reels: 5

Rows: 3

Paylines: 20

RTP: 96.48%

Max win: 1,000x

Volatility: Medium

Min/max bet: 0.20/200.00 (dependent on chosen coin value and bet level)

EggOMatic by NetEnt

Will the chickens come home to roost at Play.co.za with the EggOMatic online slot from NetEnt? Wacky winged creatures, an upbeat soundtrack, and delightful artwork and animation make EggOMatic a fun online slot for South African fans and there are enough features to keep Players trying to crack those eggs and hatch that elusive jackpot prize.

Theme

EggOMatic from NetEnt is a fun and quirky bird-themed online slot that doesn’t really have a single theme or genre. A little bit Angry Birds, a little bit Robots (that cool 2005 Blue Sky Studios animated movie), a little bit Fallout the video game, a little bit cartoony, a little bit sci-fi – and a whole lot of creative.

EggOMatic has a distinct 1950’s retro feel, a reminder of the look of those old videos and tutorials for the ideal American lifestyle – with a bit of atomic bomb warning artwork thrown in. It features a line-up of robot-looking birds at an egg factory, sitting on wires across the reels, with a large EggOMatic egg dispenser on the side. While the birds will line up for the wins, the egg dispenser pops out some sweet features like Free Spins to keep an eye out for.

It’s a very unique look with some superb animations and a cast of characters who will definitely put a smile on your face – the cuteness is ramped up to sugary sweet levels!

But below that cutesy façade is a serious slots game with Wilds, Free Spins, and Coin prizes galore.

NetEnt have certainly brought an unusual online slots game to Play.co.za, one that our Players will quickly discover is a hidden gem of a game.

Dare we even say an egg-ceptionallly egg-cellent egg-xample of the entertainment on offer from Play.co.za and NetEnt!

Graphics, sound, and animation

EggOMatic has that trademark NetEnt attention to detail that makes their games such a wonder to play. Beautiful artwork in a retro-futuristic style, small touches like the rivets on the robot birds, the crackling electricity that links the winning combos, even the clanking conveyor belt that delivers the eggs, they all add up to a colourful, beautiful, and fully immersive online slot that Mzansi’s reel Players will love.

The symbols in EggOMatic are definitely the stars of the show. The cute and quirky little birds each have an almost unique personality and, even though they seem a little hen-pecked to be working at the egg factory, they bring EggOMatic to life.

There are two levels of symbols – the low paying chicks and the higher paying birds. Symbols from lowest to highest paying: Brown Chick, Blue Chick (same value); Green Chick, Pink Chick (same value); Red Chick; Brown Bird; Blue Bird; Green Bird; Pink Bird; Red Bird.

The Robot Rooster is Wild and substitutes for all symbols. Robot Rooster Wild is also needed to trigger the bonus features.

EggOMatic has a very simple but pleasant soundtrack under the game that picks up in intensity if you start chaining features during Free Spins. It fits with the game without being overly intrusive or standing out too much and drowning out the spectacle of the superb animations.

The animations themselves are smooth and add a great sense of liveliness to EggOMatic. From the reels action to the little shocks the birds get when you hit a winning combo to the conveyor belt and eggs, the creative style of EggOMatic gets a great boost from the clever and engaging animations.

EggOMatic is a delight to play, fun and weirdly engaging, and a great option for all online slots players at Play.co.za.

Gameplay

EggOMatic is a 5-reel, 3-row online and mobile slot with 20 paylines.

Minimum bet is 0.20 and maximum is 200.00. Players should be aware that EggOMatic has a variable bet rate in that Players can choose to bet from 1 line to 10 lines. At a coin value of 0.01, and choosing level 1 (one line), Players will be paying 20. At max bet with a coin value of 1.00 and betting at level 10 (all ten lines), each spin will cost 200. Coin value can be set from 0.10 to 1.00

RTP is posted at 96.48% and the game has a medium volatility rating. Max win is 1,000x the Player’s stake.

Features

EggOMatic has some fun features that include Wilds, Spreading Wilds, Free Spins, and Coin Wins. Additional Free Spins can be awarded during Free Spins, and this is where Players can rack up some impressive wins.

Features are triggered by the eggs that are dispensed by the EggOMatic. These eggs move along a conveyor belt at the top of the screen and, if the egg lines up on a reel with a Robot Rooster Wild, the Player will trigger that feature.

There are Spreading Wilds eggs, Free Spins eggs, Coin Win eggs, and Surprise eggs. 

Robot Rooster Wild

The Robot Rooster is the Wild and substitutes for all symbols.

Spreading Wild egg

 If a Robot Rooster Wild lands on a reel with the Spreading Wild egg on the top, all symbols surrounding the Robot Rooster Wild will change into Wilds.

Free Spins egg

If a Robot Rooster Wild lands on a reel with the Free Spins egg on the top, between 7 and 50 Free Spins will be randomly triggered. Players can land extra Free Spins during this round by landing additional Robot Rooster Wilds and Free Spins eggs.

Free Spins amounts are randomly allocated. Players could win 7, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30, or 50 Free Spins.

Coin Wins egg

If a Robot Rooster Wild lands on a reel with the Coin Wins egg on the top, Players will be awarded up to 2,500 coins.

Coin amounts are randomly allocated. On Level 1, Players could win 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, or 2,500 coins.

Surprise egg

If a Robot Rooster Wild lands on a reel with the Surprise egg on the top, Players will receive a surprise bonus of either Spreading Wilds, Free Spins, or Coin Wins.

Play EggOMatic at Play.co.za today

EggOMatic is a colourful, fun, odd but engaging online slot from NetEnt that really grows on a Player. It’s different, it’s amazingly well designed, and it has a bunch of bonus features that make it quite rewarding even if it has a relatively low max payout.

Superb fun and an egg-ceptional online and mobile slots game for SA Players.

Try it for free in Demo mode or play for Real Money right here at Play.co.za.

Title: Devil’s Number

Provider: Red Tiger

Reels: 5

Rows: 4

Paylines: 30

RTP: 96.06%

Max win: 2,500x

Volatility: High

Min/max bet: 0.20/40.00

Devil’s Number by Red Tiger

The Prince of Darkness challenges Players to unravel the mystery of the Devil’s Number. Step into the Library of the Damned, search the scrolls and boil the cauldron as you seek the rewards that come from claiming the Number of the Beast.

Theme

Devil’s Number is a dark and devilish online slot from Red Tiger – a theme that might not appeal to some Players but is quite deliciously diabolical.

Set in a red-lit library, accompanied by a great heavy metal soundtrack, Devil’s Number is a macabre masterpiece from Red Tiger. Bookshelves line the edges of the screen, horned statues and skulls sit on the shelves, and a giant ‘666’ lies on the floor to firmly put this online and mobile slot in the realm of the supernatural.

The frankly creepy theme is given a fantastic softening through the comic book style, and it helps to give the slot a more game-like appearance rather than a Rosemary’s Baby- or The Omen-type horror.

Players will spin the reels to land scrolls, cauldrons, skulls, and other demonic objects to try and land the elusive ‘9s’ and unravel the Devil’s Number. The giant ‘666’ on the floor lights up to unlock features randomly.

It’s a controversial theme but Red Tiger have used it to create a thrilling and spine chilling online and mobile slot that will captivate fans of online casino games.

Graphics, sound, and animation

Red Tiger’s use of comic book art has made this online slot a winner. The artwork is amazing, and the graphics are superb. Packed with all the objects of a sorcerer’s trade, including creepy cauldrons (with cacking faces), sinister scrolls, and terrifying tomes, Devil’s Number is a visual treat.

The one area that outshines the artwork, though, is the brilliant soundtrack.

Symbols have a distinct esoteric feel to them and suit the theme marvelously. Symbols from low to high paying: 10; J; Q; K; A; Scrolls, Book; Cauldron; Skulls.

Low value symbols can be removed during features, and high value symbols can be upgraded for bigger payouts (including a 666x payout on the Skulls).

What devil’s deal would be complete without a bit of Heavy Metal to get the pulse pounding. Devil’s Number has atmospheric and brilliant sound effects – creepy and mysterious background tracks and effects – but it’s the guitar and drum driven Metal music that truly stands out. Players are given a taste of the driving rhythms when they line up wins but, to really get the full effect, Player’s need to line up the ‘9s’ and unravel the Devil’s Number to trigger the Free Spins.

That’s where the full power of the pounding sound shines!

Fantastic artwork, great graphics, thrilling gameplay, and a super soundtrack make Devil’s Number a devilish delight.

Gameplay

Devil’s Number is a 5-reel, 4-row online and mobile slot with 30 paylines.

Minimum bet is 0.20 and maximum is 40.00. RTP is posted at 96.06% and the game has a high volatility rating. Max win is an impressive 2,500x the Player’s stake.

Features

Devil’s Number has Symbol Removal, Symbol Upgrade, and Free Spins features. Players will be looking to trigger the Free Spins feature and then land Removals and Upgrades to hit to the bigger wins.

Symbol Removal

When Player’s hit a win line on 10, J, Q, or K, the Mark of the Beast may randomly burn and remove this symbol from the reels, causing a cascade of replacement symbols.

Symbol Upgrade

When Player’s hit a win line of Scrolls, Books, Cauldrons, or Skulls, the Mark of the Beast may randomly burn and upgrade this symbol for bigger wins.

Free Spins

Landing 3x 9s on reels 2, 3, and 4 will spin them round into the Devil’s Number 666 and trigger 12x Free Spins.

During Free Spins any winning combination of low value symbols will be removed from the reels, and any winning combination of higher value symbols will be upgraded for the duration of the Free Spins round. Landing another 3x 9s will re-trigger the Free Spins round.

Play Devil’s Number at Play.co.za today

Devil’s Number might not be to everyone’s taste, but it is a fiendishly fun online slot from Red Tiger. Super artwork and animation, backed by a rocking Heavy Metal soundtrack and features that could pay out big, give Devil’s Number Players an edge-of-your-seat ride through the realms of a horror/mystery thriller.

Try it for free in Demo mode or play for Real Money right here at Play.co.za.

Title: Dead or Alive

Provider: NetEnt

Reels: 5

Rows: 3

Paylines: 9

RTP: 96.82%

Max win: 12,000x

Volatility: High

Min/max bet: 0.09/18.00

Dead or Alive by NetEnt 

Rolling tumbleweeds and spinning six-guns. Where your pistol should always be loaded, and so should your whiskey glass. A storm is brewing on the horizon but the darkness coming is far more than just the weather – Jesse and his gang of wanted desperados are riding into town.

Saddle up, pardner, because NetEnt are bringing the Wild West to the wild reels of Play and you’ll need your wits and your shooters to keep this gang of varmints from shooting up your saloon and burning down your town.

Theme

Dead or Alive has become a cult classic among online slot Players around the world. It’s Wild West theme and cast of conniving criminals are instantly recognizable to any Player who has ventured through the swinging doors of an online casino, or just heard the rumours of this big hit game.

Set in a dusty frontier town, complete with swinging lantern and creaking windmill in the background, Players will be taking on some of the most feared bandits in the area: Jesse, Billy, Belle, Della, and Apache. Each of these notorious villains has their own Wanted poster to collect – and a bounty on their heads.

Dead or Alive’s quick pace, great graphics, and good soundtrack all add to the atmosphere to bring this game alive, and the small design details from NetEnt – from the themed symbols to the music to the background sound effects – create an immersive and thrilling gameplay experience.

Graphics, sound, and animation

NetEnt’s design team have crafted a game that has become a classic for a reason. Although Dead or Alive was released in 2009, the graphics still hold up in the modern online slots world.

Dead or Alive is packed with the old Wild West symbols and imagery that made the cowboy tales so popular and the old Spaghetti Westerns so watched worldwide. Stetsons, spurred cowboy boots, pistols holstered in leather gun belts, sheriff’s badges, and – of course – those infamous Wanted posters all put the Player in a world of good vs evil, of bounty hunters, banditos, and barroom brawls.

And it’s all magnificently drawn by the NetEnt team.

Symbols have a distinct Wild West flavour from the style of the low paying royals to the iconic choices of the higher value symbols.

Symbols from low to high paying: 10; J; Q; K; A; Whiskey Shot; Cowboy Boots; Stetson Hat; Holstered Pistol; Sheriff Badge.

The Crossed Pistols is the Scatter and awards the highest payout if you land 5x symbols.

The Wanted Posters are Wild and substitute for all symbols except Scatters.

Dead or Alive has a soundtrack that has lots of small nuances that the Player will probably not even realise are there – but that are integral to creating that sense of immersion. That iconic whistle a la Clint Eastwood’s the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly, creaking saloon doors, cracking whips, piano and banjo music, even the saloon crowd noises when you’re in the Free Spins round, it’s all there to create the perfect atmosphere for the Player.

Slick animation, smooth gameplay, and cool animations round out this impressive online and mobile slots game.

Gameplay

Dead or Alive is a 5-reel, 3-row online and mobile slot with 9 paylines.

Minimum bet is 0.09 and maximum is 18.00. RTP is posted at 96.82% and the game has a high volatility rating. Max win is an impressive 12,000x the Player’s stake.

Features

Dead or Alive has Wilds, Sticky Wilds, Scatters and Free Spins to add to the player’s thrilling ride.

Wild

The Wanted Posters are Wild and substitute for all symbols except Scatters.

Sticky Wilds

During the Free Spins round, the Wanted Poster Wilds are sticky and hold their position on the reels for the remainder of the Free Spins round. During Free Spins, landing one or more Sticky Wilds will activate 5x extra Free Spins.

Scatter Free Spins

Landing 3x or more Crossed Pistol Scatter symbols will trigger 12x Free Spins. Free Spins can be re-triggered once by landing Sticky Wilds during the Free Spins round. Free Spins pay win x2.

Play Dead or Alive at Play.co.za today

Dead or Alive from NetEnt is a classic in the online and slots world. And deservedly so. While the online game is a bit dated when compared to some modern online slots, it still bears testament to what the online casino games industry is capable of – immersive storytelling, incredible graphics, and thrill-a-minute gameplay.

Dead or Alive is iconic and will remain a favourite amongst online casino Players for years to come.

Try it for free in Demo mode or play for Real Money right here at Play.co.za.

Title: Cash Ultimate

Provider: Red Tiger

Reels: 5

Rows: 4

Paylines: 30

RTP: 94.78% (be aware that there are RTP ranges!)

Max win: 5,000x

Volatility: Medium

Min/max bet: 0.10/10

Cash Ultimate by Red Tiger

Looking for an electrifying, innovative update to a classic slot? Climb the Cash Ladder for multipliers and try hit the 5,000x top rung!

Cash Ultimate is a sort of sequel to Red Tiger’s Cash Volt with the major update being that players are looking to land sticky logo scatter symbols rather than plain scatter wins. Cash Ultimate is based on simple gameplay that takes players back to the classic slot machine style, but with a vibrant and modern relook and a great game mechanic.

While the essence of the classic 3-reel remains, the addition of extra rows and reels and the inclusion of a cool scatter win bonus feature adds an electrifying sense of anticipation to give players real thrills and online slots action.

Theme

Cash Ultimate from Red Tiger is a classic-style online and mobile slot with updated symbols and an intriguing bonus mechanic. As with most classic online and mobile slots, there is no immersive story or background lore to the slots game but South African online slots fans will still have a fun time with this new twist on a beloved style.

Graphics, sound, and animation

Red Tiger have brough a slick and stylish modern look to a classic style. Sharp artwork, a shiny and modern feel, and an upbeat soundtrack add a sense of innovation to what is, in essence, a very simple online slots game.

It looks beautiful. It plays fast and simply. And it has great sense of replay ability.

Players will instantly recognize the fruits, bars, and bells, symbols as being modern versions of the old school fruit machine. The hi-tech look of Cash Ultimate’s symbols are a clear indication that, while it may seem familiar, there is a little more to this slots game than expected.

The shiny, modern symbols range from low paying to high paying, but players will be looking to land the Cash Ultimate logos to make their way up the Cash Ladder for the bigger multipliers. Symbols in order from lowest paying to highest paying: Bar; Double Bar; Triple Bar; Cherries, Lemon, Star, Bell; Diamond; 7 Symbol.

There are two Cash Ultimate logo symbols, a single logo symbol and a 2x2 Cash Ultimate super symbol that fills 4x places on the reels.

A nice touch from Red Tiger is the inclusion of a funky and vibrant soundtrack during gameplay that helps to elevate the simple gameplay beyond the ordinary fruit machine style. Rather than the clicking reels, players have a soundtrack that ties in with the fast-paced action and lends to a great sense of excitement.

Gameplay

Cash Ultimate is very simple. Spin the 5x4 reels and try to line up the symbols according to the 30 paylines or try to land 3x or more Cash Ultimate logos to start heading up the big Cash Ladder on the left for progressively bigger multipliers.

Minimum bet is 0,10 and maximum is 10, which is a little low when you’re trying to hit a 5,000x max win. RTP is posted at 94.78% but Red Tiger allows for RTP ranges on Cash Ultimate so check your game before you play. Volatility falls into the medium range so players can expect consistent, lower value wins with the bonus Cash Ultimate feature hitting periodically.

Max win is 5,000x the player stake which is great but, with a max bet of 10, this can be seen as a little frugal.

Features

Cash Ultimate from Red Tiger offers a great scatter mechanic as a feature where players can land the scatters to increase their win multipliers.

Sticky Scatters

Land 3x or more Cash Ultimate sticky scatter logos to start your journey up the Cash Ladder for increasing win multipliers. Every logo landed after the first three will stick and trigger a respin until no more sticky scatters land.

Super Symbol Sticky Scatters

Cash Ultimate Super Symbol sticky scatters are Cash Ultimate logos that take up a 2x2 block on the reels. These count as 4x Cash Ultimate logos to increase your collection and move further up the Cash Ladder.

Cash Ultimate Cash Ladder

The Cash Ladder is the big progress bar on the left of the game. Once players land 3x Cas Ultimate sticky scatters, they join the Cash Ladder. Every sticky scatter landed thereafter takes players higher up the ladder until no more sticky scatters are hit.

Players must land 3x or more sticky scatters to start on the Cash Ladder. After that, every sticky scatter or super sticky scatter will take them higher. 3x sticky scatters give players 2x their stake while the major prize if players fill the reels with sticky scatters is 5,000x their stake

Play Cash Ultimate at Play.co.za today

Red Tiger have brought an updated and super fun twist to the classic fruit machine in Cash Ultimate. It’s a simple and straightforward game with lots of potential for wins, and a semi-decent max win. Great looking, very vibey, and not at all complicated for Play.co.za online and mobile slots fans.

Try it for free in Demo mode or play for Real Money right here at Play.co.za.

Title: Crazy Genie

Provider: Red Tiger

Reels: 5

Rows: 3

Paylines: 20

RTP: 96.28%

Max win: 1,117x

Volatility: Medium

Min/max bet: 0.20/80

Crazy Genie by Red Tiger

Take a fun journey to the land of magic with the Crazy Genie, a 5x3 online slot from Red Tiger that is sure to charm you with its playful graphics, catchy tune, and impressive bonus features.

It’s a familiar theme – rub the lamp and watch the Genie appear – but this Genie is not Robin Williams crazy, he’s crazy for giving away a total of five different bonus games when you spin the reels on this engaging and entertaining online slot.

Crazy Genie brings a childlike sense of wonder to the game with a hero who looks as mischievous as he looks willing to give you a win. Everybody knows that you should watch how you word your wishes to a Genie, but will this blue imp be a blessing or a curse?

Theme

Crazy Genie is an Arabian slash magic lamp slash genie themed online and mobile slot from Red Tiger, a studio well known for bringing fun and innovative games to our online casinos.

It’s a wonderfully magic theme that is beautifully imagines and superbly brought to life to give Players a truly immersive experience of the fables of these mythical creatures.

From the blue Genie to the dusty market streets in the background to the theme-appropriate symbols, Crazy Genie holds that sense of wonder that has made Aladdin such a popular and enduring story across the centuries. 

Graphics, sound, and animation

The graphics are beautiful with amazing attention to detail. The dusty market street in the background, the pattern on the magic carpet, the gauzy fabric over the reels, even the dodgy shades that Genie wears and the little turban on the snake’s head all make Crazy Genie more than just a slot game. It almost makes Crazy Genie seem like a sequel to the Aladdin movie, or a second chapter to the original story.

The symbols all have that Arabian-inspired look, with Red Tiger’s famous attention to detail evident throughout. The royals (10 to A) have a jewel-like shine to them, there are plenty of nods to the fable in the form of magic rings, magic carpets, piles of loot, and even the Genie has a unique quirk that comes from his cheesy grin and con-man style yellowed sunglasses.

Symbols in order from lowest paying to highest paying: 10, J, Q, K, A, Hand with Magic Ring, Magic Carpet, Snake, Scimitar.

Genie is Wild and substitutes for all paying symbols.

The Magic Lamp is the Bonus symbol that will unlock the Bonus Features.

The animation is amazing. Smooth reel actions, crisp transitions, and plenty of movement will keep Players’ attention throughout the game. And the anticipation of seeing the Genie peeking out of the lamp, hoping he’s going to flow out and award a Bonus, is superb.

Gameplay

Crazy Genie works like any normal online slot: spin the reels and hope to line up some juicy wins. But Crazy Genie also has two aspects that make it extra special: the Bonus symbol and the Crazy Genie himself.

Land Bonus symbols to trigger features or wait for the Genie to randomly pop out of the lamp to award an extra bonus symbol.

Crazy Genie works across a 5x3 grid with 20 paylines in the base game and 5 different bonus games if you land the Bonus Lamps.

Minimum bet is 0.20 and maximum is 80, with a 1,117x max win. RTP is posted at 96.28%. Volatility falls into the medium range so players can expect consistent, lower value wins the Bonus Features there to really boost those bankrolls.

Features

Crazy Genie ha some crazy bonus features – FIVE of them in total! Players can trigger the Bonus Features by landing 3x Bonus symbols on reels 3, 4 and 5 – or maybe your wishes will be granted, and the Genie will randomly just drop one during normal gameplay.

If Players land the 3x Bonus symbols, the Genie will bring up a big wheel with the five Bonus Features and spin it automatically. Wherever the wheel stops – Gold, Gift, Treasure, Lamp, Oasis – will decide what Bonus Feature you Play.

Genie Wilds

Crazy Genie is the Wild symbol and substitutes for all paying symbols.

Gold Bonus Feature

6x Free Spins with the Genie adding special gold coins to the reels for valuable prizes up to 1,068x your stake.

Gift Bonus Feature

Pick and Win game where Players choose between 10x gold coins to reveal prizes up to 1,179x your stake.

Treasure Bonus Feature

Enter the treasure room and choose from different treasures in this Pick and Win mini game. You could uncover prizes worth up to 258x your stake.

Lamp Bonus feature

Rub the lamp to call the Genie out and get multiplier worth up to 200x your stake.

Oasis Bonus Feature

Whack the lamp pinata to release a torrent of coins worth up to 100x your stake.

Play Crazy Genie at Play.co.za today

It’s a magical mystery ride across the deserts of Arabia on a flying carpet as Crazy Genie brings this Arabian fable to colourful, vibrant, and fun life. Players looking for entertainment will plenty to keep them occupied while those looking for thrills can be assured that the FIVE bonus features will have them spinning, wishing, and winning all day.

Try it for free in Demo mode or play for Real Money right here at Play.co.za.

Title: Cash-o-Matic

Provider: NetEnt

Reels: 5

Rows: 4

Paylines: 1,024

RTP: 96.33%

Max win: 2,000x

Volatility: High

Min/max bet: 0.20/200

Cash-o-Matic by NetEnt

Looking for a little old school saloon style for your online slots action? Cash-o-Matic delivers with an added bonus of thoroughly modern gameplay features.

There’s a great retro Art Deco styling to this online and mobile slot from NetEnt, reminiscent of the antique old-timey cash machines or tills in stores. With the jaunty piano-driven jingle and the old cog-and-spring sound effects, you could be forgiven for thinking you’re back in the 30’s – maybe even the 1830’s! But Cash-o-Matic only has an old look. The gameplay is totally modern with cascading symbols, free spins, and multipliers just waiting to be unlocked.

Theme

Cash-o-Matic has a distinct retro theme that is based on the real old-time tills that used to be on every counter in every general store around the world. Lots of brass and bronze, big clunky typewriter-style buttons, little cards that popped up to display totals and sales, and the loud ka-ching as the till drawer opened.

It’s a simple enough theme that is beautifully executed by NetEnt, a creative and modern reimagining of a classic piece of dime store nostalgia.

Graphics, sound, and animation

Cash-o-Matic may be simple, but the styling and design are superb. The graphics are crisp and so beautifully realized that you feel you can almost reach out and run your fingers over the ornate scrollwork on the brass casing of the cash machine.

It’s a vintage Art Deco masterpiece, but there’s nothing old about the quality of the Cash-o-Matic online slots game. It’s a modern makeover that brings the theme to stunning life.

Even the symbols have a modern aesthetic to them. Playing card royals and gemstones are the flavour of the game at Cash-o-Matic, and the bright and colourful symbols added to the excellent gameplay make for a very entertaining and thrilling online or mobile slots game. Symbols from low to high paying: 10, J, Q (same value); K, A (same value); Purple Gem, Blue Gem (same value); Green Gem, Yellow Gem (same value); Red Gem.

There are also gem Scatters that will unlock Free Spins if you land 10x or more .

A catchy, piano-driven jingle plays under the Cash-o-Matic game that, combined with the cool reel spinning sound effects (that somehow manage to bring that old spring and lever sound to life) gives the game a very upbeat and fast feel.

It’s something that NetEnt do really well – those subtle, almost atmospheric tweaks to graphics and sound that make their games so immersive.

Gameplay

Cash-o-Matic is a 5-reel, 4-row online and mobile slot game with up 1,024 ways to win. NetEnt have included the Avalanche feature to bring the chances of multiple wins to the game through cascading symbols. The NetEnt Avalanche feature means that, every time a Player hits a winning combo, it disappears and is replaced by new symbols to ramp up the wins.

Minimum bet is 0.20 and maximum is 200 so big spenders can play with the hope of hitting a big win at 2,000x the bet. RTP is posted as 96.33% but Cash-o-Matic does have a high Volatility so look for fewer wins but bigger win amounts.

Features

NetEnt have brought some of their most popular features to Cash-o-Matic so Players have some added thrills to what is, at heart, a relatively simple game.

The main feature is the Avalanche mechanic, but it’s the Free Spins bonus that Players will be hunting for.

Avalanche Wins

When Players land a win, the winning symbols remain on screen and drop down. New symbols fill the grid from the top. Any new winning combos also remain on screen and drop down. This means that Players get multiple chances to group symbols for multiple consecutive wins. This continues until no more winning symbols drop down.

Multiplier Bonus

Cash-o-Matic Players will notice the small window to the left of the grid that has numbers from 0 to 50x. This is the multiplier bonus indicator. Every time a Player fills an entire row with winning symbols, a multiplier is unlocked.

The multiplier bonuses go from 1x to 10x during the base game.

Free Spins

Watch out for Scatter gems while spinning. If you are lucky enough to land 10x or more Scatters you will trigger a minimum of 10x Free Spins. The more scatters, the more Free Spins.

In addition, during the Free Spins Bonus Round, Players can hit an extra level of Bonus Multipliers.

Free Spins Bonus Multipliers

 Landing additional Scatters during Free spins triggers a Free Spins Bonus Multiplier that can grow to a crazy 50x your win!

Play Cash-o-Matic at Play.co.za today

It’s a beautiful example of the combination of retro and modern, gorgeously brought to life by NetEnt. Gameplay is fast, graphics are stunning, and there are enough chances to unlock a few bonus features to keep any fan of online slots happily spinning.

Try it for free in Demo mode or play for Real Money right here at Play.co.za.

Title: Cash Noire

Provider: NetEnt

Reels: 5

Rows: 4

Paylines: 1,024

RTP: 96.06%

Max win: 1,033x

Volatility: Low-Medium

Min/max bet: 0.20/200

Cash Noire by NetEnt

We’re all looking for Lady Luck, but what happens when the lady might be packing a .38 special and grudge?

NetEnt dives into the fantastic world of noire crime movies and novels with a gritty Sam Spade-like murder mystery filled with dark atmosphere, smokey rooms, neon lights, murder weapons and suspects galore – and a femme fatale that will get your blood racing, if she doesn’t stop your heart permanently.

A gritty journey through a crime-ridden city that is packed with bonus features, mini games, an amazing story, and a moody, brilliant soundtrack. Step into the shadows, collect the clues, stay alive, and solve the crime!

Theme

Cash Noire is set in the gritty world of film noir/hard-boiled detective fiction as made famous by authors like Mickey Spillane, Raymond Chandler, and Dashiell Hammett.

The noir genre is a brilliant theme for this amazing online and mobile slot game from NetEnt. Dark and moody, smoky offices backlit by neon lights, flawed characters and questionable motives – beauty and danger existing side by side.

Players take on the role of the grizzled Detective Flint, searching the city for clues to solve a murder mystery. In the shadowy office is a beautiful femme fatale, but is she there to help Detective Flint or to ensure the case never gets solved? The reels are filled with theme-specific symbols and the ‘Crime Zone’. To the side is the ‘Clue Board’ with all the suspects and evidence. And, if you unlock the Free Spins round, you get to go on a car chase through the city to chase down your suspect!

It's all-action, all-suspense, and all-thrilling fun!

Graphics, sound, and animation

The artwork on Cash Noire is incredible, a beautiful realization of a fantastic – and different – theme. NetEnt have captured the dark and dismal atmosphere perfectly with dark and mysterious backgrounds, backlit occasionally with flickers of neon light that only deepen the sense of mystery and dread. Every noir trope is present: the jaded detective, the femme fatale, the smoky rooms and glasses of bourbon, even the polaroid pictures on the murder board. Players feel as if they have stepped into a hard-boiled detective novel or a noir film set.

Symbols take the theme even further with all the visuals of a classic crime caper from the 50s. Symbols from low to high paying: Magnifying Glass, Matchbook (same value); Ace of Spades, Glass of Bourbon (same value); Switchblade, .38 Pistol (same value); Femme Fatale; Detective Flint; Male Suspect; Female Suspect.

There is also a Mystery Symbol – a safe with a question mark – that transforms into a random regular symbol.

What really sets Cash Noire apart is the soundtrack. It is fantastic! From the synth-wave style background music to the fast-paced car chase music to the little sound effects that abound, Cash Noire’s thrills are amped up through the audio effects. But what really gets Players into the game are the little remarks and comments from Detective Flint himself, a touch that makes Cash Noire feel like Players are watching – and acting in – a movie rather than playing a slot.

Animation is slick on both the online casino and mobile casino version, fast, exciting, and smooth. The small details like the knife slashes and Crime Scene borders bring the theme to life beautifully.

Gameplay

Cash Noire is a 5-reel, 4-row online and mobile slot game with up 1,024 ways to win. The NetEnt cascade feature means that, every time a Player hits a winning combo, it disappears and is replaced by new symbols to ramp up the wins.

Minimum bet is 0.20 and maximum is 200 so big spenders can play with the hope of hitting a super-mega win at 1,033x the bet. RTP is posted as 96.06% with a low to medium volatility which should give Players plenty of winning moments.

Features

There are a ton of features on Cash Noire that make this innovative slot game quite immersive. NetEnt have brought the cascade feature to Cash Noire so winning hits are constantly disappearing and being replaced by new symbols and extra chances to line up the wins.

But it’s the bonus features that make Cash Noire great.

Mystery Symbol

The Mystery Symbol can appear randomly during gameplay.

If the symbol lands outside the Crime Zone, it will transform into a random regular symbol.

If the symbol lands inside the Crime Zone, it will clone itself through all the spots in the Crime Zone and transform into a random regular symbol.

The Crime Zone

During regular gameplay a red outline appears over three symbols. This is the Crime Zone.

If a winning symbol appears inside the Crime Zone, it will activate an item on the Clue List to the left of the reels.

The Clue List

The Clue List is 13 clues that sit on the left of the reels. Each time a winning symbol appears inside the Crime Zone, a clue is highlighted on the Clue List. Get 3 to 6 clues and the Crime Zone expands to cover 4 symbols. Get 7 or more clues and the Crime Zone expands to cover 5 symbols.

Uncover all 13 clues and launch the Free Spins City Chase feature.

Free Spins City Chase

Getting all 13 clues on the Clue List will unlock 6x Free Spins and the City Chase Map and Multiplier. During Free Spins, all 5 Crime Zone symbols stay activated.

During the Free Spins feature the Clue List is replaced by a City Map and a car. As the reels spin, the car chases through the city streets to track down the suspect. Along the route are checkpoints that show various multipliers.

Free Spins begin with a 1x multiplier. Each checkpoint (one very 7 locations on the map) will have a multiplier increase and possibly extra Free Spins.

If a Player manages to get through the entire map, they will gain up to 10x multiplier and a whole lot of extra Free Spins.

Play Cash Noire at Play.co.za today

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 Title: Bounty Raid
 Provider: Red Tiger
 Reels: 5
 Rows: 3
 Paylines: 10
 RTP: 95.71%
 Max win: 1,000x
 Volatility: Medium
 Min/max bet: 0.20/100

Bounty Raid by Red Tiger

I’m here to collect on ya head. It can be attached to the rest o’ ya or not, your choice.

Red Tiger brings a fantastic Wild West bounty hunter yarn to Play.co.za, where Players get to hunt down the dastardliest varmints across the plains of the Frontier and collect the rewards that are on their heads. Blaze a trail through the Badlands, hunt down the outlaws, hit the features, and collect the rewards.

Wild West online slots are a favourite for online Players and Red Tiger have done an impressive job of bringing us a thrilling game with great features. Packed with scowling bandits, a chisel-jawed Sheriff, and a femme fatale bounty hunter, Bounty Raid offers great visuals, an intriguing soundtrack, and interesting features to keep Players mounted up and looking for the bounties.

Theme

Bounty Raid from Red Tiger is set in the lawless Wild West of a bygone American era, where the law of the six shooter is king. Players take on the role of a Bounty Hunter, tracking bandits across the plains, sometimes partnering with the Sheriff, and capturing them for big rewards. 

It’s a bounty of Wild West, cowboy-style, yee-haw thrills.

Graphics, sound, and animation

Red Tiger have, once again, brought Play.co.za a stunningly designed online and mobile slot. The graphics are crisp and beautiful, a key aspect of Red Tiger games. The artwork puts Players straight into the Wild West theme with the almost sepia-toned backgrounds, the classic dusty feel of the deserts and plains, and the iconic symbols of the cowboy era. 

The symbols themselves are beautifully rendered and add to the theme perfectly. Low paying symbols (in order from lowest to highest) are the bullet scarred royals Clubs, Diamonds, Spades, and Hearts. Mid-range symbols are Cowboy Boots, Stetson and Lasso, Saddle, Pistols, and Gold-filled Chest. High paying symbols are Bare-knuckle Brawler, Plank-wielding Thug, Pistolero, Knifeman, and the Boss Bandit.

Bounty Raid has a theme-appropriate soundtrack under the reels sounds. It’s a rather plaintive and mournful slide guitar driven soundtrack, a modern take on the old banjo music that fits perfectly with the game itself. 

The animation is smooth and fast (and can be made even quicker with the Turbo button). While there are no epic movie-style animations, the subtle movements on the higher paying symbols and the stunning graphics mean Players won’t get bored with a flat, static play area.   

Gameplay

Bounty Raid is a 5-reel, 3-row, 10-payline online and mobile slot game. The minimum bet is 0.20 and goes up to a maximum of 100. RTP is quite low at 95.71% but it is a medium volatility slot so Players can hope to get lots of small, consistent wins. The max win is a little disappointing at 1,000x the stake but the great design and fun features make Bounty Raid a great slot to play on.

Features

Bounty Raid from Red Tiger is a simple enough slot with only two real features to speak of: The Bounty Hunter and The Sheriff.

The Sheriff

Landing the Sheriff symbol on reels 1, 2, 3, or 4 and he will collect all the bounties on any bandits visible on the reels. 

The Bounty Hunter 

Land the Bounty Hunter symbol on the middle reel to trigger the respins feature. Each time a bandit or a Golden Bounty Badge lands during The Bounty Hunter feature, it will trigger a respin. All bandits that land during the spins are ‘captured’ (slammed behind bars in a fun animation) and stick to the reels. Each time a Golden Bounty Badge lands it increases the value of the captured bandits’ bounty. If no more bandits or badges land the respin feature ends and all the bounty values are added together to make up big wins!

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Did it pan out as the punters expected? Well, yes and no. Most of the scores were never really in doubt, but what did make us rugby fans sit up and take notice was the fact that the ‘big boys’ of Ireland, France, and England most certainly did not have it all their own way.

Beware the valiant Italians

We’re three rounds into the 2023 Guinness 6 Nations and it seems that Italy are truly improving. Since 2000 the Italians have more often than not walked away with the wooden spoon, with their best ever result being a fourth place finish in 2013 after securing wins against France and Ireland. Every year there are whispers of an improved outfit that’s more galvanised, gritty and competitive and every year we’re left disappointed. Italy has given us some unforgettable moments in between, and their rugby hall of fame undoubtedly has some legends that could have featured in any team in the world. Talismanic captain and 8^th man Sergio Parisse being one of them and the long-locked prop Martin Castrogiovanni another.

What was different about the teams that Parisse and Castrogiovanni featured in was that they were quite obviously the best players in their teams, without all that much support. Whereas, this year, it’s quite hard to pick out too many individual stars from the Italian team because they all seem pretty damn good. If I had to pick a main man at the moment however, it would undoubtedly be IRB Breakthrough Player of the Year in 2022 – Ange Capuozzo. The diminutive fullback burst onto the scene last year with some outrageous running rugby and has been Italy’s main attacking threat since then. Flyhalf stalwart Tomasso Allan is still in the mix and younger more exciting editions to their back like Pierre Bruno and Stephen Varney are looking like they’ve got a big future in the game. South African born back rower Sebastian Negri is outstanding. He’s physical and mobile and absolutely battered Owen Farrell two weeks ago when they played England which immediately makes him a hero in my eyes.

So, it’s clear that Italy has almost enough to challenge for better than their standard 6^th place finish and I’m pretty sure at the end of the competition they won’t find themselves at the bottom of the table. That’s a big bet to make, seeing as they’ve lost all 3 of their matches, but I’m looking at how they lost when I make that prediction.

Their opener against reigning champions France could have easily gone their way in Rome – finishing 29-24. Against England the margin was bigger but there were long periods of play where the Azzurri were obviously the dominant team and then, this weekend, they pushed world number one Ireland all the way to the end in a game that finished 34-20. The score line is in no way indicative of how the game panned out. Ireland had to go to some really dark places to keep the Azzurri quiet and in the end they just had more class, more gas and more finesse when it came to the final pass. The Italians must be sick to death of being called “valiant” “brave” or “respectable” – but it’s better than being called a walkover.

The reason I think they’re not going to find themselves at the bottom of the table this year is because the wooden spoon spot is most likely going to the Welsh. Italy and Wales meet on the 11th of March and my money is on the Azzurri. The Welsh are in utter disarray as a team and as a union. They’ve had to call on players like Leigh Halfpenny (who’s been playing rugby longer that Ange Capuozzo has been alive) just to have some semblance of stability in their team. I hate to see the Welsh suffer like this and would have loved to have seen them come away with a win against England this weekend, but the truth is – they’re just a poor rugby side right now.

More thorns than Roses        

Call me petty, but I love a bad English rugby team. “Bad” might be an overstatement but compared to the English teams of the past decade I truly believe that they’re at a low point – and I have a feeling they’re going to get worse before they get better – which is not what they’ll want to admit in a World Cup year.

Let’s start with a couple of reasons why I think they’re not worth betting on to finish in the top 3 this year. Steve Borthwick’s appointment was a controversial one. Eddie Jones got the axe less than 12 months before a World Cup competition and Borthwick came into the setup with a lot of nay-sayers voicing their opinions on his appointment and, so far, they’ve been right. Every week we’ve seen a different team, which indicates that he's experimenting with different combinations, but it seems that he’s experimenting to the point of not being able to find any sort of consistency.

Sure he’s been dealing with injuries in key positions like Tom Curry in the back row, but some of his selections are just a bit peculiar. His backrow against Wales this weekend of Willis, Dombrandt and Ludlam looked more like a club back row than a test back row, whilst I think Itoje’s shine in the second row is starting to dim just a touch.

His scrumhalf and pivot dilemma continues. Van Poortvliet has made the number 9 jersey his own but choosing between Farrell and Smith at 10 seems to be his biggest problem. Both flyhalves stylistically influence the team in completely different ways. Smith opens the backline right up. He creates space, his cross kicks are sublime and he can dance his way around a defender or two at will. Farrell plays like a centre at flyhalf but when he plays at centre he’s just not as good as Ollie Lawrence. So, what do you do? Do you drop Farrell, the only player in the side with his level of experience, to make room for Smith at 10? Or do you drop Lawrence who’s probably been England’s find of the season at 12? Tough work. But the reality is that it’s decisions like these that the best coaches seem to make. It’s also decisions like these that have seen England lose three times on the bounce – to ‘have-a-go’ Scotland and a fight for their lives against an unbelievably poor Wales. England will finish fourth this year behind Ireland, France and Scotland – because they’re the fourth best team in Europe. That’s how I’m betting this weekend when they take on France at Twickenham.

Great Scot!         

32-21 was the score line at Stade de France as a tireless and resolute French defensive effort eventually proved too much for an unrelenting Scottish outfit that just seems to be getting better. It’s weird to focus on the losing side in a piece of sports writing, but the men from Scotland just keep continuing to impress. Both teams were reduced to 14 men early on in the contest which made for an open yet cagey affair. Finn Russell and Huw Jones shone for the Scottish with some flair and fight. Fickou defended like a one-man fortress and the French pack was super at the lineout, whilst the Scottish scrum bent some spines. It truly was a titanic battle decided by the smallest of margins and Scotland is officially a team worth their salt in the 6 Nations and possibly even rugby worldwide.

In a game that began with Scotland looking like they were about to become haggis at the hands of the French, where two red cards in five minutes – both from epic brainfarts from Test players – looked like it was going to become the talk of the game, it was two teams that play absolutely sublime rugby that grabbed all the headlines.

Finn on form is a masterclass, DuPont is a once-in-a-generation rugby mind and player, Hogg is as solid as the Edinburgh Castle, Ramos is a sniper at the posts, Duhan is a beast, Fickou is a beast tamer, the lists go on.

The match of the weekend!

Predictions for round 4         

Here are my predictions for round 4 this coming weekend and a little bit of insight as to how I’m placing my bets. Italy will take on Wales in Rome and I’ve got some bucks behind Italy winning by 8 or more points. I’m not even sure if Gatland knows who’s going to run out this weekend and Wales look too disjointed to pull off a win this year.

France will out-flair and out-fight England at Twickenham by 10 points or more. Even though the French haven’t been at their best, England aren’t looking solid enough to keep them at bay for 80 minutes. The English hate losing to France, particularly at home – and I believe the moment will be too big for them to make it an interesting contest.

Scotland host Ireland in what I believe will be the match of the weekend. Call me crazy, but I’m betting on an upset here. I know I’ll probably look back at this decision and regret it because of how good Ireland is – but they looked a little shaky away from home in Rome and Murrayfield is not an easy place to go and play rugby anymore. I’ve got Finn Russel with a man of the match performance and Scotland winning by 2, in a game that’ll open the entire 6 Nations right up.

Let’s see what happens.

The beauty of football lies in its romance.


Obviously, it’s hard to see that beauty when it negatively impacts your bets and robs you of your winnings. But that romance is even sweeter when the game goes your way, hits your bet it, and boosts your earnings. 

Just think of the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations final between Zambia and Ivory Coast. On the one side you have the most talented generation of Ivorian footballers in the nation’s history and maybe even the rest of the continent. The Elephants’ 23-man squad was made up of players plying their trade in top leagues in Europe. You had the Touré brothers, Kolo and Yaya, who were on the books of Manchester City, the wall that is Boubacar Barry, the industrious Didier Zokora, the force of nature that is Didier Drogba and the mercurial Salomon Kalou among others.


On the Zambian side, you had a team made up of just two players who were based in Europe. And this is not the fancy, football-institutions-Europe, but rather Young Boys of Switzerland and Ural Yekaterinburg of Russia. The core of the players were based in Africa, and some were plying their trade in the first division in South Africa. Common sense, football knowledge and their run in the tournament meant that Ivory Coast were clear favourites. 

But the romantic side of football showed up.

Zambia didn’t just stun one of the most talented teams of the last few decades, but they also ensured that the Chipolopolo generation that perished on the coast of Gabon in 1993 rested in peace. Zambia’s golden generation died in a plane crash shortly after taking off in Libreville after a refueling stop en-route to Senegal for a 1994 FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Lions of Teranga in Dakar.


Kalusha Bwalya survived that crash because he was going to meet the team in Senegal from the Netherlands where he was based with PSV Eindhoven. It was a tragic loss. Chipolopolo’s class of 2012 wiped away the tears the country shared following that plane crash with a storming run in the Nations Cup which culminated with them lifting the title in Libreville. Before the final, the team had laid wreaths on the coast of Libreville to honour their fallen countrymen. The Zambians were playing with the spirit of their fallen comrades, that’s the only rational explanation of how Drogba missed a decisive penalty in regulation play.


Zambia’s win is one of the most remarkable fairytales in football. It’s high up there along with Leicester City’s dramatic 2016 Premier League win and Greece’s 2014 heroic UEFA European Championship triumph.


There is something uplifting about an underdog succeeding against the odds. It’s even more special now with how money drives the game. The Champions League semifinals are almost predictable, with the teams who are regulars there also among the wealthiest in the world. Sorry PSG, there are just some things that money can’t buy. But for everything else, money can move mountains and transform teams from no hopers to English champions. Did anyone say Manchester City?

Money dominates football so much that almost every fan wants a rich emir, sheikh, or American billionaire to buy their team so that they can also get trophies. For all the romance around Arsene Wenger’s time at Arsenal, spending wisely and being able to build the Emirates while consistently playing in the Champions League and not breaking the bank, there are fans who weren’t happy with the French coach, and it led to his sacking. You really can’t show off the Emirates Stadium when Chelsea fans show off their Champions League trophies that were bankrolled by the deep pockets of Roman Abramovich.


Sure, Johan Cruyff quipped he has never seen a bag of money score a goal in response to why you can’t beat a rich club. The bag of money might not score a goal, but it can buy every good player around which leads to situations where clubs like PSG and Bayern

Munich have a monopoly over Ligue 1 and the Bundesliga respectively.


One of football’s selling points is that it’s cheap. You don’t need much to start. You can make a ball with plastics and paper, and play in almost every field - heck, it doesn’t even need to be straight. That simplicity is why football is the beautiful game.


But that simplicity is being eroded with money dictating terms. The Super League didn’t come because of greed, it was born as a logical next step with the rich teams looking to be even richer and protect their interests. And with money the key driver of the game, the Super League will eventually materialise. You can even argue that the Champions League is a version of the Super League. You have wealthy nations with more teams and their places protected while the small nations are sidelined and fed scraps.


It’s for that reason that we love to cheer for the underdog. The odds are stacked so heavily against them that they aren’t supposed to win. It’s for this reason that in 2019 we cheered for the Ajax Amsterdam squad that cost the Dutch giants €50 million to assemble, beating a Juventus side that spent €100 million to sign Cristiano Ronaldo.


With more money being pumped into the sport, upsets are going to be few and far between, which makes them remarkable. It’s also why the Nations Cup is such a special tournament. Right now, people who saw Morocco become the first African side to reach the semifinals of the World Cup think that they will be African champions in 2025. That couldn’t be further from the truth – because the Nations Cup is filled with upsets. Don’t be shocked to see Morocco being eliminated by a team made up of part-time footballers and no stable league back home, like Madagascar did in the 2019 Nations Cup when they stunned Nigeria in the group stage during a remarkable run.

We love upsets because, in a world where the big shot always wins, it’s nice to see the little man have the last laugh. It’s even nicer when you predict that win and get to laugh too, laugh all the way to the bank. 

Nope.

The reason why this cup competition has such a fond place in our hearts is because it is the platform for the classic tale of David versus Goliath. Where giants have met their fate at the feet of the minnows. It is the unpredictability, the beauty of what a football match is and can be.

Another fun fact about this historic tournament is that the winner automatically books themselves a spot in the illustrious CAF Confederation Cup League.

So, who wouldn’t want to win it? It’s big bucks, with a big history and can change a team’s and player’s life. 

Ayeye it was West Coast vs East Coast for the first round

Cape Town City FC took on Royal AM in the round of 32 in the 2023 edition of the Nedbank Ke Yona Cup.

Cape Town FC arrived with a reputation for resilience while Royal AM FC arrived with a new/old coach in John Maduka, who made a return to the team he had left a few months ago. 

It was the second successive year that these two clubs met in the first round of this tournament with Royal AM edging that previous game 2-1.

On paper this fixture looked very enticing, as these two clubs were in the top 3 of the PSL last season. Put on your makarapa, blow your vuvuzela and immerse yourself in the game as we give you the pass-by-pass, combo-by-combo moves and the halagashas. After all, it’s our thing, our football – our diski.

Yes, the going has been a bit tough for both teams this season, with both clubs suffering from a lack of consistency. Be that as it may, they both have undeniably talented sets of players, and we were sure to be blessed with a wonderful spectacle.

The line ups take the field

The stage was set. Eric Tinkler’s Citizens vs John Maduka’s Royals. Who was going to come out on top? A knockout competition is just that, a knockout KO!

Venue: DHL Stadium, Cape Town

Referee: Michal Moreseng 

Starting XI Cape Town City FC: Mpandle, Mkhize, Lakay, Fielies, Cupido, Mokhuane, Ambina, Mdantsane, Darwin, Rhodes, Zapata.

Starting XI Royal AM FC: Nyame, Dube, Sikakane, Matlaba, Manganyi, Kobedi, Mahlasela , Pelembe, Mogaila, Potsane , Sera.

A frustrating game full of ohs and eishs!

The stage was set, and a winner would be decided on the day no matter what, nomakanjanai. We saw two focused teams who were hungry to impress their fans and management. The action started slowly until the 20th minute when Royal Am pounced on a mistake that The Citizens, Cape Town City’s, defence made and Thabo Matlaba found himself in space, but Thami Mkhize swooped in with a magnificent sliding tackle to deny the former Orlando Pirates player the opening goal. 

Both teams tried feeling each other tactically without giving away their game plan too early. Royal AM played their usual style of trying to build from the back. After managing to string together one or two decent passages of play, Sera had a beautiful opportunity to shoot at goal with only the width of the woodwork denying him. So close yet so far, no cigar for the ever-industrious striker.

Cape Town City woke up a bit and got into the game and, around the 30th minute through their ever-green Number 10, Mdantsane, they came close – but the forward sliced his shot, and the ball went well wide. The first half ended 0-0 with the second promising to be more fluid with both teams smelling blood.

Upon the resumption of the game in the second half, Royal AM got the first opportunity through a corner kick that was whipped into the back post. The delicious cross met the foot of a surprised Kobedi. His shot brought out a reflex save from the ever-reliable Mpandle. 

The Citizens had 23 shots on goal and only 3 were on target. This was a testament to how we need to focus on finishing in Mzansi football, maybe it’s time teams also got striker coaches just like Man United has done with Benni McCarthy. Our strikers need to remain cool in the box and not see the headlines before they even bury the ball in the net.

Royal AM also had its fair share of chances. It seems like both teams had forgotten their shooting boots at home.  

Traditionally there are a lot of goals in this game, but this time around it was not to be. The game ebbed and flowed between the two sides. Neither of them took their opportunities.

Wasted opportunities, extra time, and the dreaded penalty shootout

The rest of the half was uneventful and uninspiring, and the tie finished as a stalemate. An additional 30 minutes would be needed to see if either one of these teams would find the winning goal. Extra time is not a walk in the park and it showed as the tempo of the game slowed down with both teams struggling.

Extra time came to an end, and it went down to the lottery of the dreaded penalty shootout. The most drama in this game ensued during this penalty shootout as Nyame, the Royal goalkeeper, came to the fore and stopped Lorenzo Gordinho and Mayo’s penalty kicks, resulting in his team winning 4-3. Nyame held his nerve and secured the win for MaMkhize’s boys.

The Nedbank Cup has become more challenging over the years. Teams have become more tactical in their game approach. A free-flowing game is not what football neutrals should expect in their clashes. It is about patience and picking the right side of the posts in the penalty shoot-out. Thwihli Thwahla managed to secure their spot into the last 16, all thanks to the reliable hands of their number one, Hugo Nyame.  

As expected, the victory sparked passionate celebrations from the Royal AM faithful and their proud owner Shauwn Mkhize. With much excitement, she went onto the pitch to congratulate the boys by showing them love and appreciation. We’re just happy to see her not handing out cash bonuses on the field as was well-documented not so long ago. 

She’s truly acclimatised and grown accustomed to the league. Halala to the boys from the East Coast Kwa Zulu Natal, they came, they saw, and they went Thwihli Thwahla and bagged yet another win against The Citizens. 

Can they go all the way and lift the Nedbank Cup and make history?  

And this year is no different.

The sound of the Italians as they pushed France, the sound of the French as they took on Ireland, the Scottish faithful (and hopeful) and roaring as they downed both England and Wakes – it is incredible! One Irish cabbie was quoted as saying that he had never, in his life, seen so many French people in Dublin.

You may notice that we haven’t included England in the above comment. Twickenham, long seen as a bastion of English rugby, seems to be the one stadium where the fans are very muted. After the Scotland game, the post-match interviews saw some scathing and disgusted fans talking about how the atmosphere at Twickers was absolutely disgusting. No singing or shouting or support from the England fans and some even being told to keep it quiet!

Maybe it’s got something to do with the recent alcohol regulations aimed at stopping hooliganism? But, if England really want to make an impact this year, they need those fans – and their voices – behind them.


The North means business

Two rounds into the 2023 Guinness 6 Nations and one thing has become abundantly clear; northern hemisphere rugby is no joke. 

Since the first ever Rugby World Cup of the professional era in 1987, only one northern hemisphere side has won the trophy. Martin Johnson’s England beat Australia in the 2003 final with a last-minute, weak-footed drop goal from arguably one of the greatest flyhalves the game has ever seen – Jonny Wilkinson. Before that, and since then, no northern hemisphere team has done the same. England and France have been runners-up three times each, but left with nothing but silver medals and teary eyes.

Every four years however, one or two northern hemisphere teams have great mid-year, Autumn and 6 Nations series and each time the northern tabloids get carried away with “this could be our year” narratives and every time they leave disappointed. Southern hemisphere fans, journalists and rugby players alike don’t often pay much attention to the chat – but that’s what makes 2023 different.

The resurgence of the north has been growing. Over the last 3 years, teams like Ireland and France have collected southern hemisphere scalps and made some big statements. The integration of the hemisphere’s domestic competitions has undoubtedly closed some gaps and made the world of rugby smaller and arguably easier to understand. The 6 Nations is often a chance for the south to sit back and study, and with our notebooks out we’re learning that there’s something a little scary about 2023’s edition of the tournament.

The Green Machine

Ireland is the number one team in the world right now, and usually I’d have an argument against them, but unfortunately I’m running out of excuses. Even though they came up second best to a formidable French unit in last year’s 6 Nations, the Irish are coming into 2023 super-hot. Last year they secured their first ever series win against the All Blacks and beat South Africa at the Aviva Stadium once again. Any ‘they’ll fizzle out’ ideas have been put to bed by an incredible start to their 6 Nations campaign. They absolutely battered Wales 34-10 in Cardiff in Round 1. Warren Gatland’s return to Wales started horribly as his team were outclassed in every aspect of the game. Two early tries from Doris and Ryan immediately put Wales under pressure and as soon as they started to gain some momentum, James Lowe latched onto a loose pass and ran clear of all red jersey’s to score Ireland’s third try in just 21 minutes. Ireland were up 27-7 at the half and the game looked beyond rescue already. The second half started well for Wales with Liam Williams crossing the line for Wales’s first and only try, but that was the only breach of Ireland’s world-class defence all game. Van der Flier got off to a flier and Hugo Keenan at fullback was simply superb. The bookmakers never really gave Wales a chance and the result wasn’t much of a surprise.

A week later marked Ireland’s first real test against last year’s Grand Slam champions, France. The number one and two ranked teams in the world were only separated by 6 points the last time they met, with France coming out 30-24 winners. This year, however, was a completely different story. Ireland looked even better than they did against Wales in Round 1. The first points went the way of the French after James Lowe’s clearance kick hit the spider cam, resulting in a scrum for the men in blue. After a strange early setback, Ireland responded well after Lowe’s kick in behind forced an attacking lineout and Ireland’s first real chance for points. Ireland started the game without four key players through injury. The first real test of their depth for over a year. Tadhg Furlong, Robbie Henshaw, Cian Healy and Jamison Gibson-Park were ruled out during the week and one more player was ruled out just before they named their team. Dan Sheehan dropped out and Rob Herring came in to start. After phases and phases of gritty French defence, the Irish finally found their breakthrough with a beautiful piece of interplay, sparked by a flyhalf-esque inside ball from tighthead Finlay Bealham to fullback Hugo Keenan. Keenan’s running line was sublime and his pace and power took him over the line for Ireland’s first five-pointer. Keenan is fast making a case for himself as the world’s best number 15 after a string of outstanding performances, and this clash further proved his talent.



After Bealham’s brilliance, Ramos converted another penalty to bring the tie back to 7-6. Then, the French did what the French do best. High risk, high reward rugby. Some interplay between Jelonch, Ntamack and Penaud resulted in the latter scoring an unreal try from inside the French 22. Penaud is the best in his position in the world right now and continues to impress every time he puts on the blue jersey. France had the lead, but not for much longer as Ringrose unleashed Lowe on the wing, and the lethal finisher dotted down acrobatically (and questionably) in the corner. After a lengthy TMO debate, Ireland were given the points and took the lead back. Ireland kept pushing for a bonus point before the break, but Ramos would get a penalty back and the teams would go into the half 22-16 to Ireland.



The second half was an even tighter affair than the first. Beirne and Sexton were side-lined after some big knocks and that brough backup pivot Ross Byrne into the game. He started by adding three points to Ireland’s tally after a phenomenal clearance kick from Hugo Keenan (who seems to do no wrong). Ramos’s trusty boot kept France in the game, bringing it back to just 6 points difference but, with 8 minutes to go and the game very much in the balance, Caelan Doris unleashed Gary Ringrose out wide with a beautiful pass over the top. Ringrose channelled O’Driscoll in a magnificent solo effort, beating Jalibert, Fickou and Taofifenua on his way to the line and thus sending the Aviva into raptures. 

Truly a test match for the ages that the Irish ended up winning 32-19.

The flower of Scotland has some thorns.

The top of the 6 Nations table sees Ireland level with the Scots who, after downing England and Wales respectively, are looking like a seriously good rugby side. Duhan vd Merwe scored one of the best tries I’ve ever seen against England and Finn Russell is running the Scottish backline with style and authority. Scotland have been putting their hand up more and more of late and have pulled off some outrageously good performances.

The word ‘mercurial’ gets thrown a lot when it comes to rugby players. Mercurial, according to the online dictionary we Googled, means “subject to sudden or unpredictable changes of mood or mind”. It also means “of or containing the element mercury” but we really don’t think that has anything to do with a Finn Russell’s career as one of the most unpredictable 10’s in the global game. ‘Unpredictable’ is actually a bit of a simplification when talking about the 30-year-old’s style and history. It’s well-known that Gregor Townsend gets a bit frustrated with the maverick fly half, and would probably bench him if he wasn’t one of the most dynamic playmakers in the world when he’s on song.

And on song he has been in the opening exchanges of the Guinness 6 Nations. Ridiculous steps, ludicrous off-loads, unbelievable cross kicks and kick passes. He is the maestro that is playing the opposition like a fiddle.

It helps that his pack, including stalwarts like WP Nel, Pierre Schoeman, David cherry, George Turner, Jamie Ritchie, Richie Gray, Johnnie Gray, and Matt and Zander Fagerson, are in a purple patch of form right now. They are disciplined, direct and dominant.

Bringing the flair to the team are the backs like Huw Jones (in a revitalised return to form), Sione Tuipulotu, Kyle Steyn, Duhan van der Merwe, and the ever-dependable Stuart Hogg.

As a South African rugby supporter it makes me both happy and a bit cross to see that four of the Scottish team actually hail from our sunny shores – WP Nel, Pierre Schoeman, Kyle Steyn, and Duhan are all homegrown products of Mzansi!

Are they good enough to foil an Irish Grand Slam? Probably not. But they’re certainly good enough to make it interesting. I’ll be betting on France to beat them at home next weekend, which will give Ireland a pretty clear run at winning the Grand Slam at home on the 18th of March.

A long road ahead

Wooden spoon merchants Italy put up a brave performance against France in week one, but got spanked by England on the weekend. It was a very one-sided affair (not helped by atrocious refereeing) but it was not unexpected.

Italy have some exciting players coming through and a chaotic gameplan that can really throw the opposition into a state of panic. Are they on the road to a surprising 6N or World Cup upset win – not even close. But with players like Ferrari, Bigi, Fischetti, Cannone, Allan, Garbisi, Menoncello, and Padovani, they are not the whipping boys they used to be. Although, it is two players who seem to have sparked this Italian renaissance: Sebastian Negri, the abrasive and hard-hitting back rower (his hit on Owen Farrell was a thing of BEAUTY!), and the elusive and exciting fullback, young Ange Capuozzo. We will be watching both these players very closely in the coming weeks.

The England/Italy game, while a bit of a thumping for the Azzurri, was more a failure to impress from England than a dominant display from the Red Roses. They are in trouble, and new coach Steve Borthwick is going to have to make some big calls if they want to be serious contenders come September and the Rugby World Cup. The axis of Marcus Smith at 10 and Farrell at 12 has not provided England with the dominance they were expecting and introducing powerful Bath centre Ollie Lawrence at 12 and putting Farrell at his preferred position of flyhalf seemed to do wonders for the England attack.

It’s a juicy few weeks ahead.

I suspect Ireland will give Italy 30+ in the next round and I think England, as mediocre as they are, should beat Wales in round 3. France up against Scotland is going to be a humdinger of a game that, right now, is too close to call. Although we suspect that France, after going down to Ireland, may have got a bit of a wake-up call and should just edge the proud Scots.


It's all to play for nonetheless and I can’t wait to see what happens. 


You see, Mokwena is a descendent of the most iconic surname in South African football.

Sons of Sono

As the son of Julius “KK” Sono, Mokwena is also the grandson of Eric “Scara” Sono which makes him the nephew of Jomo Sono. The Sono’s are footballing royalty. But, instead of presenting himself as some sort of prince, Mokwena wore the pauper hat and worked to build his name rather than be viewed through the lens of his glorious family. 


It is despite his famous lineage rather than because of it that Rhulani Mokwena has risen through the South African footballing ranks and gained the highest accolades. When Orlando Pirates came calling for Mokwena to coach their juniors, the Orlando-born coach instead chose to trek to Phokeng and join the now-defunct Platinum Stars (called Silver Stars at the time). At Silver Stars, he got to work with some great coaching minds, from Steve Komphela to Allan Freese and Cavin Johnson. He started at the Under-15s, progressed to the Under-17s then Under-19s and eventually the first team.


He did so well that at 24, he sat in the technical area for an official PSL match when Komphela was suspended. That was in 2009. Fourteen years later, he is the head coach of Sundowns who are on the brink of winning their sixth league title in a row - and Komphela is his assistant. It’s been a remarkable journey which has taken him from Phokeng to working as an analyst and scout, heading the Bloemfontein Celtic/Sporting Lisbon academy, working his way up at Sundowns, and becoming an African Champion in 2016.

Coaching ‘Downs on the up

Mokwena returned “home” to Orlando Pirates, the team that is the symbol of his birthplace, but, while that spell reinvigorated the club, it didn’t bring the desired return. Now that he is back at Sundowns, and he is the main man in charge instead of being a co-coach with Manqoba Mngqithi as was the case at the start of the season, he is on the brink of becoming the youngest coach ever to win the DStv Premiership at 36.


“It gives me a huge sense of gratification that I am here because of my work and not who I know or am related to,” Mokwena once reflected on his career path. “It’s an important statement because, for many years, South African football has been known to be full of nepotism. (You get ahead) based on your connections and who you know.”


“I think the statement that my journey makes is a statement that would encourage many others. Even though I come from football royalty, I am pretty much an unknown because I didn’t play professional football.”

He did it his way – and continues to do so

Mokwena’s success is massive for a number of reasons. It’s not just that he did it his way, letting his work do the talking rather than getting ahead because of his surname. What’s remarkable is a young coach being given a chance, and also being backed to succeed. South Africa doesn’t do that often. A number of coaches in the top flight are either old, have outdated methods, or just not good enough to be at this level.


There are many young coaches who have fresh and innovative ideas on how to take SA football forward, and many of them will never get their moment in the sun because of the outdated outlook from club owners when they are looking for a coach. They are just looking for a name, and if their passport has the emblem of a country with a strong football heritage then they can easily get any coaching job in the country.


Roman Folz, AmaZulu’s 32-year-old coach, is the antithesis of what Mokwena stands for. Yes, he is also young, but he only got the job because of his French heritage and is unlikely to do much with AmaZulu just as he didn’t do anything with Marumo Gallants. It’s not just about giving young coaches a chance, it’s also about giving deserving people a chance due to the work they have put into the game and improving themselves.

It’s time to shake up the game

Changing the current status quo doesn’t mean just getting any young coach, but it’s also about seeing what this coach brings and how that fits into the club’s outlook. And those young coaches also need to have served their time. Mokwena toiled in the juniors and worked in various places to show his worth and what he brings. The progress and success of players like Percy Tau and Bongani Zungu is down to Mokwena’s eye for details and thoroughness.


His appointment as head coach of Sundowns is revolutionary. His success at the club will be massive not only for him but other young technocrats who are doing great work in the country’s amateur ranks and juniors, but they aren’t recognised at the top. If a big club like Sundowns can back him, other clubs could be emboldened to shake things up in their coaching appointments and look beyond just the name.


Mokwena knows this, and it is part of the fuel that drives him to succeed. He has an interesting word to describe the game of musical chairs that Premier Soccer League clubs play when it comes to the appointment of coaches. He doesn’t use the word recycling, instead he uses regurgitating - which is more apt. Some coaches who have been moving around at various clubs have been episodes of unmitigated disasters – but they keep being appointed. And then we are surprised when the standard of football doesn’t improve.


Many pundits put Sundowns’ success down to money. While money has played a massive role in the club’s dominance, it’s not the only reason why they are this successful. A strong part of their success is down to the high work ethic entrenched in the club’s ideals. And no one embodies that than Mokwena, a man who has had to work hard to make his name through his own terms - then show why he deserves to be rubbing shoulders with SA football coaching royalty and why Mosimane tipped him to have a career even more remarkable than what Jingles has achieved. 

Play.co.za’s Chiefs fans were looking for some good news this weekend, something that would give them a bit of hope for their team and for their online sports book predictions – but it was not to be as the boys from Pretoria took the game one-nil from the Soweto Giants.
 
Every South African football-loving fan was ready for this game. Their sports bets were in. Two of South Africa’s biggest teams were going to go at it – again, for the second time this season – with Sundowns looking to do the league double over Kaizer Chiefs. The stage was set for Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs to lock horns.

Sundowns were tipped to shine

Going on recent history and the South African bookmaker’s odds, the men from Mamelodi have had the upper hand over the Phefeni Glamour boys. To be fair, Mamelodi Sundowns have been dominant in both the domestic league and local cups for several years now. This dominance has also created a dialogue based on the FIFA Financial Fair Play rule with some opposition fans asking for the rule to be implemented in South Africa. What's the FIFA Financial Fair Play rule? The Financial Fair Play (FFP) is meant to make sure that football clubs stay within budget and spend what they’ve earned so no financial losses will occur to those clubs, endangering their long term survival. It also stops clubs from buying all the best players to load their leagues against the opposition.

But back to on-the-field matters. Kaizer Chiefs were coming off the back of a humiliating 4-0 loss to AmaZulu, and Mamelodi Sundowns were looking
for a record-setting 12th straight win in the DStv Premier League. 
 
This titanic match would take place in the Spiritual home of South African football, the iconic 90 000 seater FNB Stadium, affectionately known as Soccer City, in the south of Johannesburg and a stone's throw away from Naturena, the home of Amakhosi.
 
The starting eleven wasn’t much of a surprise:

Kaizer Chiefs XI: 
Khune, Frosler, Dove, Kwinika, Hlanti, Zwane, Maart, Nkosingiphile Ngcobo, Dolly, Du Preez, Bimenyimana.

Subs:
Petersen, Ngezana, Sithebe, Matlou, Mashiane, Solomons, Shabalala, Duba,
Sekgota,

Mamelodi Sundowns XI: 
Williams, Mudau, Modiba, Kekana, Mvala, Mokoena, Zwane, Allende, Maema, Shalulile, Mailula,

Subs:
Onyango, Ngobeni, Sirino, Ralani, Morena, Mbule, Mkhulise, Saarvedra, De Reuck

The man in the middle of this park would be the insanely talented and ever-diligent, referee Sikhumbuzo Gasa.

Pushing from the kick off

This game was the hottest ticket in town. The crowd was ready to go and so were the players. Mamelodi Sundowns picked up where they left off and showed Kaizer Chiefs why they are the best in the land. The game got off to a very slow start with both teams sussing each other out. It was a matter of tactics, with Sundowns building from the back and Amakhosi trying to close them down quickly using their striker's pace.

As the game started to flow, Mudau took the ball from the centre half, put some pace behind it, running down the right flank. He lifted his head and saw Peter Shalulile and crossed the ball to him hard and low. Peter unselfishly saw Maema making a run from the D-Line. Shalulile laid the ball to him and Maema needed no second invitation to beat Khune with a scorcher on the right corner of the goalpost.

One Mamelodi Sundowns zero Kaizer Chiefs.

The goal came in the 20th minute and Amakhosi were rattled, another 4-0 looking like a possibility. This brought Downs' game-winning tally to 12 successive games, leading at the summit of the premiership with 17 points. At such an early point in the league, Mamelodi Sundowns have set themselves up for another successful season with every other team playing catch up. 
 
The Glamour Boys kept on playing the high press game, pushing to win the ball in Downs’ territory. This tactic worked, with Du Preez being able to steal the ball from sloppy defenders, but his final execution was simply not clinical – and that summarised Kaizer Chiefs’ day. KC could have scored two goals before halftime but had left their shooting boots at home.
 
As the old adage says,” In football, if you don’t take your chances, you’ll get punished” and that’s exactly what happened. This game was a reflection of the difference in class between both clubs. Even after going 1-0 down, Amakhosi battled and began to gain dominance but lacked the composure and right decision-making to put the ball past Ronwen Williams. Even with Downs being sloppy and scrappy at times, they never lost their shape and remained true to their footballing principles.

Record breaking Downs

It is the first time in the history of the modern PSL that a team has had a running streak of 12 consecutive wins. While this was the 12th league win in a row for Mamelodi Sundowns, it was a third loss on the bounce for Kaizer Chiefs. For a club of their stature this surely must raise some red flags. Even after this promising but fruitless performance, Arthur Zwane is still adamant that his team will improve with time and that there will be light at the end of the tunnel. 
 
The fans might argue against that, having booed the team off at halftime. Whether Arthur would like to admit it or not, his job is most certainly on the line, and the final nail in his metaphorical coffin could be sooner than expected. The Soweto derby taking place on the 25th of February couldn’t come at a worse time. Should he lose against Orlando Pirates he is most certainly gone. So, whatever is happening at Naturena Village, Zwane needs to find a solution and he needs to find it very fast because one thing we know about South African football fans is that they want results NOW and they are very impatient. VERY IMPATIENT! Look for the odds on Zwane being replaced at your favourite bookies, because he is on thin ice with the Amakhosi faithful.

What the coaches said

Rhulani Mokwena, head coach of Mamelodi Sundowns, shared his thoughts after the game. “In the second half, we played horribly. The defence was leaking, slow, and full of mistakes. The midfield wasn't playing our normal football and you could tell they wanted a second goal but without a proper structure and plan. Chiefs were unlucky in this game, we made them look superior.” 
 
That’s an honest assessment of his team’s performance and he would love to improve on their game. To prove how much the men in yellow were off their normal game, even though the result went their way, a large number of Sundown supporters left early and didn’t participate in the post-match singing ritual even though they managed to conjure up a historic PSL double against Kaizer Chiefs.

Mamelodi Sundowns expect world-class performances every time, and can you blame them? They are the KINGS OF SOUTH AFRICAN football, after all. 

Amakhosi left this game knowing they could have taken the three points had they been more clinical. Eish, diski is a painful game.

With the DStv League halfway through the season, it is almost clear who will lift the trophy – the boys from Mamelodi. Betting on Sundowns to lift the trophy is not quite a sure bet yet, but it is looking more and more like game over for the other South African contenders. 

After the long wait during the Christmas holidays and the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, we can finally see our local heroes doing AmaZulu vala, tsamaya and the defenders being dribbled from left, right and centre. We can put on our regalia, hit the stadiums, put a bob or two on out teams and revel in local football talent.

One of the biggest games to kick off the year was Orlando Pirates FC versus Lamontville Golden Arrows.

The people of Orlando came out in numbers to watch their local heroes and current MTN 8 Champions start their 2023 off with what they hoped to be a fantastic start – and the Buccaneer fans were not disappointed.

Ziyakhala from kick off

Both coaches put out their strongest line-ups with the boys having had a long break. Amabhakaniya and Abafana bes'thende – as the two teams are known – seem to always put on a show full of goals for the local diski-loving soccer fans, and both teams make sure to field the best in their positions to bring thrills to the game.
 
But, while it’s no secret that every team would love to go into a tough encounter with a full complement of players, that was not the case for Jose Riveiro and his injury-stricken side. The Sea Robbers coach was forced to change a few things around leading up to the game due to a few injuries. And his plight didn’t lessen as players suffered injuries during the game. Riveiro was forced to take off Bandile Shandu and replace him with Craig Martin. The coach also took off midfielder Miguel Timm for Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo. When it rains it pours. 

Starting Line ups:

Pirates XI: 
Chaine, Xoki, Sibisi, Shandu, Maela, Timm, Monare, Dlamini, Saleng, Hotto, Erasmus.

Subs:

Mpontshane, Martin, Mako, Motshwari, Ndlondlo, Pule, Dzvukamanja, Makgopa, Mabena.

Golden Arrows XI:

Mlungwana, Hlatshwayo, Lunga, Nxadi, Ndlovu, Sibiya, Dube, Dlamini, Mmodi, Makhubela, Mutizwa.

Subs: 
Mbatha, Shitolo, Mantshiyane, Magubane, Gumbi, Nkosi, Moon, Ndwandwe 
Referee: Thabo Mkhabela

Pirates Dumela!

The Buccaneers showed their championship quality and managed to grab all three points and also put a stop to their run of losses. The team was also buoyed on by the 4-0 loss of their bitter rivals, Kaizer Chiefs, the previous night so it was imperative the Pirates make the most of the Amakhosi slip up.
 
Orlando Stadium was electric as Amabhakaniya beat Abafana Bes’thende 3-1 to end a three-match losing streak. Arrows came very close to grabbing the lead in the very first minute of the game when Thabang Monare's back pass was intercepted by Knox Mutizwa, who didn’t think twice and released a vicious shot that was saved by their goalkeeper Chaine.

After Monare's nearly costly mistake, Pirates focused themselves and played their game. Their patience resulted in a goal from Saleng around the 70th-minute mark.

Saleng's third goal of the season couldn’t have come at a better time. After taking the lead, Orlando Pirates must have thought that they would cruise to victory and bag all three points, but Arrows did not make the trip to Soweto to be spectators.

They came to play.

In no time, Golden Arrows managed to get back into the game in classic Arrows fashion through teamwork and flair. Abafana Bes’Sthende's second-half substitute, Velemseni Ndwandwe, restored parity by cancelling Monnapule Saleng's early strike. The match was drawing to a close and it seemed to be another game where Orlando Pirates drop points after a lead.

The club from Orlando knew they had to give the fans something to celebrate. These are the same fans who booed them in the first half. Talk about pressure! Luckily for everyone invested in Orlando Pirates, they managed to get the goal they were looking for as Terrence Dzvukamanja scored in stoppage time to give Pirates the lead. As if that wasn’t enough, the ever-energetic Vincent Pule put the game to bed when he netted the third goal and scored Orlando Pirates' second goal in the stoppage time.

The much-needed win took some pressure off the head coach of the Buccaneers as they had suffered 3 losses in four games and the fans were starting to bay for blood. As you all know being a coach is hard, but it’s even harder when you’re at the helm of such an institution as Orlando Pirates.

RIP Bucs superfan Baba Goodenough

As great as the result was, fans felt the absence of one of its superfans from the stands, long-time faithful supporter Goodenough Sithole. The death of the superfan sent waves through the footballing community at large and Orlando Pirates made sure that he was smiling wherever he was with this result. 

Baba Goodenough was a long-time supporter of the "Sea Robbers" and was seen at every single home game. Come rain or sunshine, the man was there to cheer on his beloved Orlando Pirates team. He considered himself to be the club’s NUMBER ONE fan.

Sithole passed on in the early hours of Friday morning. He proclaimed himself to be the club’s biggest fan and was renowned for turning up at games dressed as a woman. His passing was unexpected and comes as a shock. A long-time fan of the club who was seen at every game, Sithole’s star shone brightest after he went on national TV and was interviewed by legendary broadcaster Deshi Bhaktawer. After that interview, Sithole was affectionately known as “5 Skippers”. His broken English during the interview was a favourite amongst South Africans and from that day forth he had love from everybody in the footballing fraternity.

To the Sithole family: stay strong and believe that he is in the big grandstand in the sky, looking down on you and cheering you on.

Bucs sail on after some choppy seas

Orlando Pirates has climbed to number four in the log standings. The return of the injury-prone Thembinkosi Lorch should add more energy and flair to the attack in their upcoming fixtures, helping the team to convert their chances and clinch more three pointers. But it has not all been smooth sailing for Amabhakaniya and punters will be anxiously checking their odds as the season progresses. With big draws ahead – including the iconic Soweto Derby – Pirates will need to keep their focus firmly on the horizon.

Ayeye iPirates ibuyile. 


The season was a defining one for the Gunners. They had the youngest squad in the league and were laying the foundation for conquering England and returning to the top table of European football. But the journey towards that dream, especially in the 2021/22 season, was filled with drama, from the Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang saga to the club’s up-and-down campaign - going from looking like they will be returning to the Champions League to failing to even make the Europa Conference League. Arteta felt the pressure the most, but he didn’t budge on his principles.


The Aubameyang situation was a massive test for Arteta. He was heavily criticised for letting go of the club’s most prolific striker in the recent generation, especially doing so without a plan for a replacement. But Aubameyang had crossed the line, and if Arsenal are to return to their former glory days, staying true to the club’s principles will be key. Arteta didn’t budge, and the club supported him. 

In that moment, you could see Arsene Wenger’s “son”. Arteta has some Wenger elements about him, from his unconventional approach (like blasting You’ll Never Walk Alone at Conley ahead of Arsenal’s trip to Anfield) to his creative team talks that are centred on winning the heart and his multilingual persona. Arteta isn’t about to transform English football like Wenger did, but he has the qualities to move with the times - something Wenger struggled to do when English football caught up with his trendsetting ways.

Not invincible, but still worth a bet to take the title

The current Arsenal generation is far from the Invincibles. The only reason why they can be mentioned in the same breath as that all-conquering side that won the 2003/04 Premier League without a loss, is that this side will break the drought that has hit the London side since that glorious campaign. The league is Arsenal’s to lose, having shown great mental strength, character and a fighting spirit that has seen them comfortably lead the standings. 

The emphatic North London derby win over Tottenham Hotspur was another reminder of how far this team has come. Arsenal were in control from the first whistle, and confidently brushed aside their North London neighbours who had disturbed the status quo by being the dominant force of the region while Arsenal were the laughing stock. 

Arsenal’s success is centred on teamwork and unity, the core principles that Arteta preached when he exiled Aubameyang before the Gabon forward was sold to Barcelona for returning late from a sanctioned trip to France. Aubameyang had had other transgressions before, but this was the final straw for Arteta. It sent a strong message to the club that, regardless of who you are, the club’s core values come first and protecting the team is of paramount importance.

Small changes that make a huge difference

The results are there to be seen. You have an Arsenal team that is not only united but refuses to be bullied and fights for one another. Aaron Ramsdale has the heart of a lion. He has been brilliant in goal. He brings passion, great shot stopping abilities as well as good reading of the game. He is part of the solid foundation that has seen Arsenal improve dramatically when it comes to defending set-pieces.


In the 2021/22 season, Arsenal finished the campaign without conceding from a corner kick. There were many factors responsible for that. But chief among them is the club’s strength and ability to refuse being bullied. In the past, Arsenal dropped their heads when things didn’t go their way and weren’t forceful enough to rattle their opponents. Now they are confident enough to take on anyone. The main reason for their strength in set-pieces, however, is the job done by Nicolas Jover.


“Nicolas is a genius in the way he thinks and the way he creates the plans. Sitting with him and discussing different set-plays, you feel everything has an exact thought behind it. There are no coincidences at any point in any routine,” said Mads Buttgereit, Germany's set-piece specialist who has faced Jover as an opponent and developed a good relationship with.


The biggest improvement of this Arsenal side is how they handle disappointment. There’s a reason why Arsenal were the last team to top the standings in December and not win the Premier League. When the pressure intensified, the side crumbled. This is a symptom of a young team, but more importantly a reflection of a side lacking in confidence.


Arsenal has reacted strongly against Aston Villa, Fulham, and Leicester City. In all these matches Arsenal looked to have the wind knocked out of their sails but, instead of drowning, they found a way to float. Gabriel Martinelli helped Arsenal regain their lead less than three minutes after Douglas Luiz equalised for Villa. Fulham took the lead in another champion-defining match for Arsenal, but in less than 10 minutes skipper Martin Ødegaard equalised for the Gunners before Gabriel Magalhães netted the winner.


That character was also on display against Leicester. Granit Xhaka helped Arsenal regain their two-goal cushion less than two minutes after William Saliba scored an own goal. And when James Maddison gave Leicester hope, Martinelli quickly snuffed it to give Arsenal a 4-2 win.


Arsenal are passing many tests they have failed in the past, which is what makes them genuine title contenders. Even without Jesus, Arsenal fans have faith. This is another element where Arsenal have improved. The club tends to be reliant on certain figures, and because of their terrible luck those figures are injured in crucial moments of the league which sees them crumbling down. But not this season.


Arsenal have looked solid even without the Brazilian forward who was injured at the FIFA World Cup. Arsenal have scored nine goals in their first four league matches without Jesus. That’s because Arteta has succeeded in making the team one, ensuring that Arsenal aren’t reliant on individual players but instead have a solid team that fights for one another. 

And it has revitalized more than just this venerable, and venerated, club – it has rekindled the hopes of the faithful, the dread of the opposition, and the odds on making it all the way for the bettors.

The Proteas’ embarrassing batting display in Australia dragged the side back into the past while also giving South African cricket a glimpse into its future. 


The Proteas were woeful with the bat Down Under. Their clash with Australia was a one-sided contest that awakened memories of the Aussies tormenting South Africa in years gone by. The Proteas failed to reach the 200-run mark in the first Test and lost the second Test by an innings and 182 runs. 


In the third Test, they might have produced a gutsy display to salvage a draw, but they suffered the embarrassment of a follow on and even after batting for two innings they failed to reach Australia’s target of 475. This is made worse by the fact that the Aussies declared that total with six wickets in hand with Usman Khawaja looking devastating on 195*.

Not exactly bowling the betting options over

The performance of the tour to Australia has taken SA cricket on a tailspin, forcing it to do some soul searching. Even though the results have been humbling - it could have been worse if it wasn’t for the strong bowling line-up. The 2-0 series loss not only exposed the country’s batting malaise, but also showed South Africa where things will go if there are no drastic changes made on the running of domestic cricket. 


There are layers of why the Proteas find themselves in this position. The boardroom controversies haven’t helped. But the main reasons are a mixture of failing to prepare for life after the golden generation to a domestic cricket set-up that isn’t competitive or rigorous enough to produce soldiers who will go and fight until the end for the Proteas instead of just wilting.

Lacking in leadership

The loss of players like Hashim Amla, Graeme Smith, AB de Villiers, Faf du Plessis and Jacques Kallis would put a strain on any team. Add the departures of Vernon Philander, Morne Morkel and Dale Steyn and you have lost once-in-a-generation talent. It’s not just what these players brought with the bat and ball that you lose, but it’s also their leadership - something the current side lacks. When they have their backs against the wall, they have struggled to pick themselves up in a dressing room thin on strong leaders. 


A strong leader is essential in these trying times as they would help deflect the noise that’s due to boardroom politics and other negative headlines. Dean Elgar has struggled to show that. He talks a good fight but, when it comes to delivering with the bat, he is nowhere to be seen which puts him under a bigger microscope. That makes things worse, which could be why his best in Australia was reaching 26, in a run that included a duck. 


Elgar is no doubt a brilliant character. You don’t get compared to Rambo if you aren’t a warrior. But that Rambo spirit disappeared the moment he took over the captaincy role. As one of the experienced players in the team, it’s important that Elgar raises his hand not only in performance but also how he carries himself. Without a strong leader, the batting side collapsed.

Cricket in the red – for players, fans and punters

The main problem though of why the Proteas find themselves in this position is because of how domestic cricket is structured. It’s so fragmented and divorced from the Proteas that the players in the two different set-ups could be living in two worlds. The gap between first class cricket and international level is massive, and in South Africa there isn’t a lot of effort put in place to bridge that gap. 


South African batters don’t play enough red ball cricket. Without strong and consistent competition, the Proteas will simply not produce world beaters. It’s that simple. The country has the fortune of having pitches that react differently, which means if our players played more red ball cricket across the country, they would be able to do well anywhere in the world. 


Instead of making the most of this advantage, those in power have chosen to cut costs and limit travelling across the country by staging some tournaments on similar pitches. This season’s four-day cup, following the restructuring of domestic cricket, will see players get tested in different settings across the country which is a step in the right direction. But playing seven matches a season is not enough as is the case with the tournament due to Cricket South Africa’s financial constraints. 


“It is key for us, we have to play more four-day and first-class cricket,” the Proteas’ batting coach Justin Sammons said after the Australia collapse. “How they [Cricket South Africa] balance that is up to them. The more games you play, the better you are going to get, and the more lessons you are going to take.


“It is an important focus area for us as a country in how we look after the First-Class system and four-day cricket in future. It’s going to be a tricky balancing act. It’s the way the world is going. We need our guys playing as much cricket as possible.”

It’s time to bet on our past 

There’s no doubt that there’s talent in the country, you can see that by the number of players who struggle to make the cut to the Proteas, migrate abroad and find themselves playing for England and New Zealand. The problem is that South Africa doesn’t nurture its talent well. 


With the batting crisis engulfing the country, a proactive organisation would have roped in the experienced batters we had in the past to steady the ship and share their experience with the current bunch. Before they are snatched up by our international opponents.


This is a national problem and needs all the stakeholders in cricket to rally together to save it. If not, the once proud Test team we had will be a thing of the past and South Africa will be relegated to a country that produces exciting cricketers who light up the Indian Premier League and do very little for their country. 



Should he still be captain after the World Cup? Should the Springbok captain be based in South Africa? Is it weird that the Sharks and Racing 92 (competitors) collaborated on the deal and aim to build a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship? And the toughest question of all – is South Africa happy for him, or will there be sour grapes? 


Sharks make big money moves 


The Sharks have made some pretty big moves since the Roc Nation takeover in 2021. New York lawyer Marco Masotti, backed by hip-hop icon Jay Z and his global consortium, have shown that they have the cash to take the Sharks to a new level. They bought Eben Etzebeth back from France, lured Mbonambi and Kolisi away from the Stormers and put Rohan Janse Van Rensburg on a flight home from the UK in order to build a side strong enough to challenge for domestic and international honours – and hopefully fill a few more seats at King’s Park in the process as well.

Kolisi, who joined the Sharks early 2021, has managed to have his contract in Durban cut short to enable his speedy move to France in 2023 in a highly collaborative, ‘big picture’ kind of way with his new club Racing 92. Before I dig in to why that’s a little weird, let me say that I’m pretty excited for Kolisi as a person and as a player. I’ve no doubt that he’ll be earning a fat paycheque and become an even better player in what has become the most competitive club scene in world rugby.

But there’s something quite strange about the long-term, mutually beneficial relationship between two competing clubs. Is it part of a plan to ship even more players out of South Africa and into France? Are Lukhanyo Am and Makazole Mapimpi, who are also represented by Roc Nation, next on the list? If so, why should I care? Seeing South African rugby players – especially those from humble beginnings – flourish and get their well-earned bucks is something worth celebrating, but the unfortunate payoff is that South African domestic rugby is going to continue to decline in quality and therefore popularity.

Maybe I’m thinking too deeply about all of it, but I haven’t been super excited to watch a domestic rugby game in a while – and if our nation’s best and brightest aren’t playing, then I’m sure I’ll be even less interested. Maybe all that it means is the next club rugby jersey I buy might be from Montpellier or La Rochelle. Don’t bet against it. 

Does the armband need to live in SA?  


The temperature on Twitter is pretty cool at the moment. Nobody is feeling too enraged or betrayed by Kolisi’s imminent departure besides the odd pseudo-nationalist-weirdo – and I’m firmly in the supportive camp myself for the reasons I mentioned earlier. But, there is some dialogue around the captain’s armband and whether Kolisi should retain it or not once he leaves. Let’s say for all intents and purposes that Kolisi is the best number 6 in South Africa when he makes the move, I have no problem with him retaining the captaincy. Even with the Springbok’s slightly shaky Autumn international run, he’s a World Cup winning captain that plays at a very high level. Sure, we’ve seen some dips in form but he’s looking fit and strong and was huge off the bench for the Sharks last week. I’m of the opinion that captaincy shouldn’t be about where a player chooses to earn their club money. If anything, playing in France – home to the number one team in the world right now – will make Kolisi better. A north-south hybrid that knows both sides of the game. The fact is, things can change very quickly. A year ago nobody would say a word against Mapimpi owning the number 11 shirt for the Boks – until they saw Kurt-Lee Arendse play. So let’s see how Kolisi is as a player in 2023 before we start speculating over which bicep will be the next to don the armband. 

The World Cup Project   


There’s one big piece of business that needs to be concluded before we wave goodbye to King Kolisi – the 2023 Rugby World Cup. There’s no doubt in my mind that if Kolisi avoids injury between now and rugby’s biggest competition he will lead the South African team to war. Springbok fans are in a weird space after the Autumn internationals after losing to France and Ireland – which is a little unfair in my opinion.

The Boks lost by 3 and 4 points to the number one and number two teams in the world.

Without a properly recognised flyhalf at the helm and with a few experimental inclusions.

We saw England lose patience with Eddie Jones, dismissing him months before the competition, and we’d be silly to make any brash personnel changes in our own camp if we want to retain the title. It would be cool if Rassie stopped pissing everybody off with his inflammatory pot-stirring and even cooler if we could focus on building a side that has the guts and guile to win the Webb-Ellis yet again.

I think we’re just a few good finds away from having a very big chance of doing it.

Our front row got the wake-up call they needed against the Irish and the competition for those 6 jerseys is very tight which is always a good thing. Our second row isn’t a problem area, but our back row needs a little work. Kolisi and du Toit need to find consistent form and fitness and they’ll be okay, but a concern is the number 8 jersey since the departure of the enigmatic Duane Vermeulen – who might still get on the plane, you never know. Wiese hasn’t been amazing and Roos hasn’t been given a proper go yet, but I have a feeling that he might be our guy. The battle for 9 will be an interesting one, but Faf has done it before and Hendrikse, as exciting as he is, makes me worry sometimes. Pollard back at pivot seems non-negotiable if he’s fit, but his defence is still a major concern. Manie Libbok is setting the stands on fire with his calm and assured play but he will need to play a lot of Test rugby between now and the World Cup – and I think he definitely should anyway. Willemse is in danger of becoming too much of a utility player, so much so  that he ends up being of no utility at all. Maybe he should get the 15 jersey a little more often and leave the 10s to be 10s. There is much debate about Willemse as 12 as well, a position that really plays to his strengths, but our centres are magic. I don’t want to hear any hate for the official World Rugby XV number 12, de Allende, and I’m sure nobody will argue with me about Lukhanyo Am. The back three is a tough one too. Kolbe had a weird return to international rugby but you can’t doubt his class and, on form right now, I’m taking Arendse over Mapimpi. Full back is an arm wrestle between Willemse and le Roux for me. There’s a lot of Willie haters out there, I know, but I’m not all the way convinced of Willemse yet and Aphelele Fassi isn’t ready. 


Anyway, there are some exciting, daunting times ahead – and a Rugby World Cup year is always a good thing. We’ll be watching and shouting at the TV no matter what happens, as most South Africans will too. The same way most South Africans would and should wish Siya Kolisi a warm, albeit a little sad, farewell. 

In a season defined by weird timelines offset by a World Cup in November due to extreme Qatari weather, the players that represented their countries had all of 6 days to recover between the World Cup final and competitive league football. Returning winners Alexis McAllister and Julian Alvarez joined their club teams back in England after a week of boisterous Buenos Aires debauchery and hit the ground running in their first week of festive and new year’s fixtures whilst French runners up, Lloris, Konate, Areola, Varane and Saliba also flew straight back into club duties after licking their wounds after heartbreak in Qatar. 

The Gunners keep on firing

A few things have changed since the last Premier League ball was kicked in early November, but an equal amount of things have not. Arsenal went into the World Cup break with a 5 point gap at the top of the table over defending champions Manchester City and the red-side of London has remained on top. A bet for Arsenal to win the Premier League at the beginning of the season would have won you big money but, as the season has progressed, their ‘underdog’ odds have slowly wilted away. With 22 games left to play, the odds on Arsenal to win the title are sitting at 8/11 or 39.13% according to Sky Bet. With 5 points between them and the Cityzens, you’d expect those odds to be a little stronger – but City’s quality still has them as favourites to win the league with a 57.82% chance.

I think that’s a pretty fair shout.

That’s not to say that Arsenal haven’t been outstanding, because they have been. They look a galvanised unit, playing with a poise and panache that we haven’t seen from an Arsenal side in over a decade. Young Norwegian captain Martin Odegaard has grown into the captaincy role and is bossing the midfield with the composure of an elder statesman, but the vibrancy of a young, creative prodigy. The acquisition of William Saliba at centre back has settled their defensive woes considerably, with Saliba pushing hard to be the best CB in the league this year. It helps that Partey and Xhaka have come to the party in the holding midfield roles in front of him. A year ago you could’ve put big money on Granit Xhaka to get the axe and find himself trying to put the pieces of his career together in Turkey or France or some other farmer’s league – but he’s shut all of us up with one of the most remarkable career revivals I’ve ever seen. Once erratic, hot-headed and just downright average, now dominant, confident and dynamic, Xhaka has been a big part of Arsenal’s resurgence this season and might even be one of the best midfielders in the league right now.

The young wingers Martinelli and Saka continue to dazzle and impress but the one thorn in Arsenal’s side that definitely bolsters City’s 57.82% chance of winning the league, is the injury to Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus. Jesus suffered medial ligament damage in Brazil’s group game against Cameroon at the World Cup which means that Jesus could be side-lined for a further 2 months. Jesus was Arsenal’s big signing from 2022 and his impact leading the line was immediate. Arteta’s only real back-up is Eddie Nketiah, who’s shown that he’s ready for the challenge after netting against Brighton and West Ham, but if the Gunners want to go the distance they’ll need a bigger gun in their Arsenal.

There are talks of a big money deal with Atletico Madrid for Joao Felix on loan but they aren’t the only Premier League club interested in the young Portuguese starlet. Manchester United and Chelsea are also preparing bids, but their cases are both weaker ones at this point. Whether the Felix deal comes through or not, Arteta has all but signed young Ukranian winger Mykhailo Petrovych Mudry (say that five times fast) from Shakhtar Donetsk. We don’t know all that much about him yet, but his supposed £55million transfer fee suggests that he’s got the goods. 

City still the best bet 


We’ve established that Arsenal are looking better than they have in decades – and the young spirited outfit is not far off from being a title winning side and even a team that can push for some knockout stage European football – but City are still made of a bit more. The winning culture under Pep Guardiola isn’t a new product or ethos. It’s been built over time and with A LOT of money. More money than Arsenal have spent in at least double the time. City have won five Premier Leagues in 8 years, whilst Arsenal last tasted the same glory in 2003.

There’s a lot to be said for teams that just know how to win. 

It’s not about Arteta’s managerial acumen. He has proven – even through the #ArtetaOut saga – that he’s a man with a plan, a student of some of the game’s greatest managers and a leader who’s got his dressing room on his side. But the fact of the matter is that City have two full starting XI’s that could challenge for the trophy whilst Arteta has to go emergency striker shopping to fill the void of Gabriel Jesus.

Depth, confidence, managerial prowess, money and trophies are all on City’s side. So, that’s probably where my bet is going. The fact that I’m a proud Chelsea supporter has nothing to do with it. In fact, I’m taking a weird satisfaction in watching this young Arsenal team flourish. It feels more like the Premier League again with a strong Arsenal side in it, but the light blue side of Manchester should have what it takes to grind it out when the business end of the season arrives. 


Top-four talk 

The one thing that’s beyond debate is that both Arsenal and Man City will end in the top four, but what about the other two remaining Champions League spots?



At the beginning of the season my bets for the top four (in order) were as follows: 


1. Man City


2. Liverpool


3. Arsenal


4. Chelsea 

Now that Christmas has passed, that bet would end in tears for me. After 16 games Chelsea sit in 9th after Thomas Tuchel got the boot 7 games into the season as the first big change of the Todd Boehly error. His replacement, former Brighton manager Graham Potter, is yet to galvanise a squad of individuals that look like strangers when they get together on the pitch, bar a few moments of luke-warm link-up play. I’m hoping Chelsea still have a sniff at the top 6 but the squad seems to be in disarray and with more purchases lined up for January, it looks like things might just get a little more confusing and overwhelming for an already potentially-out-of-his-depth Potter. Liverpool got spanked 3-1 by Brentford last night, suffering their first defeat to the Bees since 1938. Klopp’s former championship winning side seems to lack the energy, fight and finesse that previous editions of Liverpool possessed.

They’re hanging on in 6th but not looking great either.

As a result, I’m banishing my bets for Potter’s blues and Klopp’s reds and rather putting a bit of trust in Eddie Howe’s high-flying Newcastle for a top four finish for the first time in 20 years. Their new Saudi owners haven’t even properly opened their cheque books yet and they’re still going about their business better than they have in over two decades. Fourth place is a tough shout, but I think Manchester United might nab it. Rashford and Martial are playing football again and the decision to part ways with sulky Ronaldo is probably going to work out for the best both short-term and long-term for the club.



At the end of the day, the Premier League will decide its own fate, as it always does – but that’s my take for now. Happy (and responsible) betting! 

It will be the first World Cup to be played during the Northern Hemisphere’s winter, kicking off on the 20th of November and with the final being on the 18th of December.

It will be a first World Cup held in an Arabic nation.

It will be a first appearance for Qatar on the World Cup stage.
 
And it will be the first time in history that all the African teams who will be participating will have African coaches at the helm. We hope this bodes well for our African brothers who managed to qualify. 

Is it Africa’s time in Qatar?

It’s no secret that an African team has never won the World Cup. We’re hoping that this year will be a different story. Just the thought of one of our African counterparts going to the desert and conquering the world gets us excited. Much like the Nigerians, South Africa did not qualify for the main event but that does not mean that we won’t be rallying behind our brothers that are competing in the World Cup tournament.

It seems African teams cannot progress past the quarter finals, they simply cannot break the proverbial glass ceiling. We have seen some steps forward and plenty backwards. The 2022 World Cup should be the one to hopefully change Africa’s trajectory in football history. Africa is blessed with talent but on and off the field matters affect the game. Things such as controversies, payment issues, bad behaviour on and off the field, poor preparation and the recruiting of foreign coaches who do not identify each country’s strengths and weakness or simply don’t understand the culture of those nations has affected African teams’ performances in the World Cup.

2022 should be different with all teams being represented by African players who have also played football on the continent. The homegrown coaches have created stability and consistency withing their teams. Tunisia, Ghana, Morocco, Cameroon, and Senegal carry the hopes of billions of people in Africa and the diaspora.

Let’s take a closer look at the teams that carry the hopes of an entire continent on their shoulders.

Tunisia

Coach Jalel Kadri has ably guided his country through the playoffs and Tunisia will appear in their sixth World Cup following their participation in 1978, 1998, 2002, 2006, and 2018. The Eagles of Carthage as they are known topped their second-round qualification group with Wahbi Khazri shining as Tunisia’s top scorer in qualification. He will have a hugely important role to play if Tunisia is to survive the star-studded sides in Group D (France, Australia, and Denmark). Looking at their opposition’s strengths, the Eagles of Carthage will need to push themselves and work as a disciplined unit in order to progress to the next round. 

Ghana

Otto Addo will be leading The Black Stars from the front. It was a bumpy ride to qualifying but the main focus is the journey ahead. Addo featured in Ghana’s first World Cup appearance in 2006. The team will be up against Portugal, the Republic of Korea, and Uruguay in Group H. Although this team looks very impressive on paper and littered with promising individual talents, building a collective understanding and cohesion defensively is a challenge the coach has to deal with to stand any chance of making history. 

Morocco

Coached by Wlid Regragui, Morocco managed to win every game in their qualifying group against Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, and Sudan, scoring an incredible 20 goals and conceding only one. They are looking like quite the threat ahead of this tournament and could be the surprise package out of all the African teams. They are in the same group as the 2018 runners-up Croatia, Belgium and Canada. Morocco has a star-studded side with tall and strong players such as Hakim Ziyech, Roman Saïss, Achraf Hakimi and Yassine Bounou.

Cameroon

Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions have been consistently representing Africa at the World Cup, appearing in seven World Cup editions beginning in the 80’s. In 1990 they became famous for Roger Miller’s goal celebration and continued their World Cup appearances well into the 90’s and 2000’s. Rigobert Song is another Cameroonian who enjoyed success on the world stage and played in four World Cups as a player. Cameroon will be facing the fancied Brazil, the unpredictable Switzerland, and the tough Serbians. 

Senegal

The current reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions, Senegal, appear to be the most prepared and consistent with coach Aliou Cissé – who captained the 2002 team – leading from the coaches seat. This will be the Lions of Teranga’s third World Cup appearance and they will go up against the formidable Netherlands, the hosts Qatar, and under-dogs Ecuador in Group A, but Senegal’s experience and undeniable talent should see them progress over Qatar and Ecuador with the very tough Netherlands being their biggest challenge. The team sports the likes of Édouard Mendy of Chelsea, captain Kalidou Koulibaly, Idriss Gueye, Ismaïla Sarr. Unfortunately, talismanic attacker Sadio Mané is a late withdrawal from the squad due to injury and this might just be a huge blow to the team who are African favourites to push for higher honours. Thankfully, the team has many talented players who have played together often and are characterised by a strong team spirit and a never-say-die attitude.

Rising Africa

This is shaping up to be one of the best World Cup tournaments on record, with stars aplenty and the highest level of footballers the world has ever seen. 

This World Cup will also serve as an opportunity to not only entertain the masses but to also garner hope in the different African states because that’s what soccer can do, it can inspire millions of people and connect the world in a way many sports can’t. We look forward to the African Nations giving it their all. One day, maybe not this tournament, but one day an African country will lift this prestigious trophy.

The 2022 MTN8 edition has come and gone, and Orlando Pirates FC managed to cement their place in the annals of history by securing their 4th title. Because of that historical feat, MTN decided to let the Buccaneers keep the trophy. This means that this famous tournament will be unveiling a brand-new trophy for the 2023 edition. But that’s still a whole year from now, so let’s stay in the here and now and focus on the great final that was.

A crowning achievement

In the week leading up to the decider the AmaZulu nation was in high spirits as they had just coronated their new king, who happened to also grace the final as it was hosted in the same place he was crowned, the picturesque Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Alas, the good vibes did not translate into a victory for the football club. The last time AmaZulu FC was in the top eight final was 46 years ago when they were well-beaten 8-2 on aggregate by Kaizer Chiefs, and this trend was, unfortunately, not about to change.

Both clubs put out very competitive teams for the finale.

Orlando Pirates XI:

Hotto, Sibisi, Erasmus, Ndah, Xoki, Timm, Motshwari, Monyane, Ndlondlo, Saleng, Ofori.

Subs: Mpontshane, Pule, Nga, Mako, Shandu, Lepasa, Dlamini, Makgopa, Makgaka.

AmaZulu XI: 
Mothwa, Mphahlele, Mobara, Hanamub, Maluleka, Bwalya, Maduna, Kwem, Mhango, Sikhakhane, Makhaula.

Subs: Ndlovu, Buchanan, Gumede, Malepe, Brooks, Zuma, Mabiliso, Majoro, Amonome.

Orlando Pirates and AmaZulu’s MTN8 final match-up was the last match on the Premier Soccer League schedule before a month-long break to make way for the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup in Qatar, which as we all know Bafana Bafana did not qualify for. But we’re not here to speak about that, we are here to speak about the MTN 8 Final, which was as eventful as we’d hoped for and full of action.

It's Wafa Wafa winner takes all!

In cup football there must always be a winner and a loser, and the victor this time around was the Mighty Buccaneers, however, it was a difficult journey for both Orlando Pirates and AmaZulu FC to get to the final of the MTN8, both clubs having gone through some difficult clashes. Pirates had to meet defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns in the semi-finals, while AmaZulu had to go up against a Chiefs side hell bent on a trophy.

Moses Mabhida was packed to the rafters and the scene was set for what would eventually be a tactical masterclass from Pirates. They managed to win the game 1-0 with a magnificent free kick from the on-form Saleng. He is really proving himself with every passing minute and the future looks bright for this young man. It’s really unfortunate that the international break came at a time when he’s starting to flourish and show the country what he’s all about. Let’s just hope, for Pirates’ and his own sake that he does not lose the momentum.

Pirates were appearing in their second MTN8 final in three years, after defeating Bloemfontein Celtic 2-1 in the 2020 decider. On that occasion, they came from behind and won thanks to goals from Deon Hotto and Thembinkosi Lorch. It’s hard to believe that the Buccaneers have been to 16 finals in the top eight competition in all, winning 10 of those. This is an impressive stat that shows the club’s cup pedigree over the years. With that being said this will be Pirates’ sixth final since MTN took over sponsorship of the competition in 2008. I’m sure their old Soweto rivals from Phefeni won’t want to hear this, but no team has been to more finals in that time than the Bucs. They have won three times (2010, 2011, 2020) and suffered only two defeats (2013, 2014) in the previous five. 

Both the men at the helm of the two clubs, Pirates coach Jose Riveiro and AmaZulu tactician Romain Folz, were aiming to claim a first piece of silverware in South African football. They both recently joined their respective clubs this season and this was the perfect opportunity for them to raise their stock in South African football.

Only one team rose to the challenge and showed their pedigree and that was the mighty Sea Robbers, Orlando Pirates.

Head-to-Head between the two giants

The Soweto-based club went into this encounter with relative confidence considering their excellent head-to-head record against AmaZulu. The Sea Robbers have yet to lose to AmaZulu since 2013, which is a staggering unbeaten streak of 16 games.
As far as cup meetings between the League’s two oldest clubs go, those have been a rare occurrence over the years, with a total of only five played over the past 37 years!

1990: Bob Save semi-finals - AmaZulu 1-0 Pirates

1992: Bob Save first round - Pirates 2-1 AmaZulu

1994: BP Top 8 third place - AmaZulu 1-2 Pirates

2018/19: Telkom Knockout quarterfinals - AmaZulu 1-3 Pirates

2021/22: Nedbank Cup Last 32 - Pirates 1-0 AmaZulu

How have these two sides performed against each other in recent times? Well, it was a stalemate when the two sides met in the league a short while ago, a result that saw Pirates stretch their unbeaten run in this particular encounter.

Pirates were victorious the last time these two sides met in a cup game, with a second-half goal from Deon Hotto ensuring that they advanced in the Nedbank Cup back in February.

Meanwhile their last meeting in Top-Eight football came in 1994, where the Buccaneers came out 2-1 victors on the day.

And now, Orlando Pirates and AmaZulu met in the MTN8 for the first time in 28 years and in the first cup final in 48 years.

But records don’t lie and it has been 32 years since AmaZulu last won this trophy against Pirates when Owen Nzimande scored the only goal in the Bob Save semi-finals. And the record still stand, and has been extended, with the latest show of force that saw the Buc’s overpower AmaZulu and record their latest win and get their hands on that coveted trophy – and this time they’ll keep it forever.

Local can only be better – for the team and for the game

Rigobert Song is head coach of the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon while Ghana will be managed by Otto Addo. The Atlas Lions of Morocco will be led by one of the continent’s brightest coaching prospects Walid Regragui. Aliou Cissé will man Senegal’s dugout and Tunisia will be led by Jalel Kadri. This is a massive milestone because of the continent’s football associations’ love for European and South American coaches, sometimes at the expense of their own.


It has become too common for a local coach to qualify an African nation for the World Cup, only to be dismissed on the eve of the global showpiece citing lack of “experience” only to bring a European or South American coach whose “experience” has seen them achieve nothing. Unsurprisingly, those coaches then fail to do anything with the African teams they don’t really know or understand. 


This inferiority complex is among the reasons why no African nation has won the World Cup, or even reached the semifinals of the tournament. In the 90s, it looked like Africa was on the verge of conquering the world. Cameroon, led by Roger Milla, dazzled the world in the 1990 showpiece, including stunning the then reigning world champions Argentina. The Indomitable Lions were eventually knocked out in the quarterfinals. But Africa had arrived. When Nigeria won gold at the Olympics six years later, the African dream intensified.

A dream denied

But that dream has turned into a nightmare with Africa still in search of a maiden semifinal appearance. Senegal in 2002 and Ghana in 2010 matched Cameroon’s feat in the only two memorable performances of African nations since the Indomitable Lions’ display more than 30 years ago. 


A number of reasons have contributed to this disappointing run. The main reason has been organisation. The continent’s football associations have been woeful in how they have managed their national teams. In almost every World Cup there is a bonus row with the top brass failing to honour promises they have met. 


The situation was so dire in Brazil, Ghana’s football association had to fly $3-million to calm the rebellion that was brewing in the Black Stars camp. The Ghanaians were miffed that the association had failed to pay their bonuses but flew a number of dignitaries, in first class, to enjoy the month-long spectacle. 


The other main challenge for African nations at the World Cup is their over reliance on one star player. When that player doesn’t shine, the whole team looks flat as they are too dependent on individual brilliance rather than a strong team approach.

Is Morocco the turning point?

Morocco doesn’t have any of those problems going into the showpiece that will run from 20 November until 18 December in the Middle East. In fact, Morocco have laid the foundation that will see them become a powerful team on the continent. The north African nation’s football association has invested heavily in coaching its coaches. The continent’s first CAF Pro Licence was hosted in Morocco where Regragui was among the first graduates. 


The two trophies of the continent’s inter-club competition currently call Morocco home. RS Berkane are the reigning CAF Confederation Cup champions while Wydad Casablanca are the holders of the CAF Champions League. Even in women’s football Morocco has done well. Their senior women’s national team lost in the final of the Africa Cup of Nations to Banyana Banyana while Association Sportive des Forces Armées Royales are the reigning CAF Women’s Champions League winners after thumping Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies 4-0. 


These developments are down to a well-run association that has invested heavily in the country’s football. But it will take more than this for Morocco to do well in the World Cup in Qatar. So, what sets them apart as the team that’s going to carry the continent’s flag in the showpiece?


Well for starters, Morocco has one of the toughest teams to break down. The Atlas Lions’ game is based on organisation, which is key in a knockout competition. They are not fancy, but they get the job done through their resolute defence. The return of Hakim Ziyech to the team, after his spat with former coach Vahid Halilhodzic who was sacked three months before the World Cup, means that Morocco have an added creative dimension to their game. 


Regragui, who is sometimes referred to as “Morocco’s Special One”, is a tactically astute coach who knows how to get the best out of his players. The 47-year-old might be new to international football with the national team, but he has the heart and drive that could push Morocco to be a surprise package in the showpiece.

It will be a tough ask for Africa’s teams…

The Atlas Lions have to negotiate past a group that features Belgium, Canada, and Croatia. It’s a tough group, and if they can get out of it, they will start to believe that they can do well. 


The Indomitable Lions have to negotiate past Brazil, Serbia and Switzerland in Group G. Ghana are in Group H with Portugal, Uruguay, and South Korea. Tunisia find themselves grouped with Group A along with the hosts Qatar, Netherlands, and Ecuador. 


Most of the continent’s hopes are on Senegal who come into this tournament as African champions with a galaxy of stars. Ghana and Cameroon might have been disorganised leading up to the showpiece, but they are led by coaches who inspire unwavering devotion. Tunisia and Morocco will be playing in familiar conditions in the Gulf.

…but it isn’t completely out of our hands

The African game hasn’t progressed to a point where we can start thinking about one of these five nations returning from Qatar with the title. But the small steps in the improvement in the running of the game inspire confidence that at worst the African nations will do better than the dismal performance in Russia where all five teams crashed out in the group stage. If there’s a team to break the semifinal glass ceiling this year, a good bet is backing Morocco to do so. 

Last Saturday, and according to my prediction (it’s a pleasure to the punters and a big sorry to the Bokke fans), the Springboks went down narrowly to the Irish at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. And to be honest, it could have and arguably should have been by a bigger margin. Both flyhalves, Sexton and Willemse were woeful from the tee, with Willemse putting in a bad enough shift for Cheslin Kolbe to take over as kicker after he returned from the sin bin for a dangerous tackle in the opening minutes of the game. Ireland proved that they’re not the number one ranked team in the world by mistake but, truth be told, it was an incredibly mediocre performance by the men in green and gold by their World Champion standards.

Bookmakers had Ireland as the favourites to win last week and this week is no different as the Boks are seen as the underdogs going into this weekend’s battle against the French in France. It’s not often that a Springbok win has such low odds, but if you’re a South African rugby fan maybe it’s something to get used to. Here’s why… 



Bok brutishness isn’t enough

If there’s one thing we learned about last week’s game against Ireland is that our big boys aren’t always going to be the biggest, hardest and fastest on the pitch. For years we’ve relied on a bombastic, sizeable pack that has chewed up and spat out the opposition without even hitting 5th gear. Last week however, our big boys were given a bit of a tutorial on how to be big and fast and fit.

From number one to number 8, the Irish pack was up for it. 
In fact, it was one of the most brutal first halves of rugby I’ve watched in a long time. If the Boks made a big hit, the Irish made a bigger one. If we gained scrum ascendancy once, they took it back three or four times. Our front row of Kitshoff, Marx and Malherbe were pinged numerous times during the game and weren’t enjoying the usual level of success that they enjoy at scrum time, which meant our backs got less ball and the team got less points. When we were able to win some penalties back however, Damian Willemse looked properly uncertain behind the tee, and even worse out of hand, missing touch more than once – which, in a game of fine margins, is just not good enough.

Come the showdown against the most flairest of flair sides and the coaching staff have reacted to one of the issues and named 2 changes in the front 3 to face off against the French. Nche and Mbonambi come in for Kitshoff and Marx whilst Malherbe retains his spot. We’ve always had two interchangeable front rows and I’m glad to see the changes up front after last week’s less than average performance.

However, Willemse has held onto his spot at number 10 which raises a few eyebrows. There’s no doubt Damian Willemse is an exciting and versatile young player with a lot of ‘X’ Factor – but being a great schoolboy and Currie Cup flyhalf doesn’t make you a test match flyhalf. Every World Cup winning squad has a number 10 that can be backed to nail the crucial kicks, either for touch or for poles, and last week he performed neither of those tasks very well at all. The apprehension to give Libbok a start confuses me. Sure he’s untested at this level but if this Autumn Series is about trying new combinations and forming the blueprint for our World Cup squad, maybe the risk of new blood is worth taking. Willemse has looked far more comfortable at 15 than he has at 10 and I would have loved to have seen Libbok given his chance. What if Pollard, God forbid, gets injured again before the World Cup and Willemse continues to make schoolboy errors? Do we then call on Morné Steyn again? Does Johan Goosen get one more shot? Or do we back a URC finals flyhalf with an 86% kicking success rate who can also show and go, step and offload? Thankfully he’s on the bench and if Willemse pulls out the same kind of performance in the first half like he did last week – Libbok must play 40 minutes.



In other news de Klerk comes in for Hendrikse who was dead average last week, Kolbe returns home to the wing where he’s obviously more comfortable and Le Roux starts at 15 with Mapimpi eating the bench for the first time since 2018.

French are fearless and fit

Remember the flairest of flair comment above? Well, from 1 to 15, this French outfit is pretty world class. They’re fit, fired up and frothing for another Southern Hemisphere scalp after Damian Penaud’s wonderous solo effort secured them a one point win over Australia last week. I spoke briefly about the Irish pack and how they managed to front up and eventually dominate the Boks and I fear the same about the French. Their front row of Baille, Marchand and Anonio are prolific in tight battles but can move around the park as well as most back rowers can, which makes the fact that they have an electric back row even more nerve wracking. All through their outstanding 6 Nations triumph, Jelonch, Ollivon and Alldritt were outrageous. Their engines go for miles, their intensity never wavers and they just love getting their hands on the ball and moving bodies. Wiese didn’t give us what we needed in those areas last week and Kolisi was a lukewarm version of himself which he can’t afford to be against these lads if we want a sniff.

Last week I said Marx would have to be a world-class hooker and flanker at the same time if we were to stand a chance and he wasn’t, so this week that responsibility falls into Mbonambi’s hands – who, when he’s at his best, can do it. 

Their forwards are fearsome but the backline is also a pretty scary prospect. The Australians managed to keep Dupont quiet by his standards, but I still back him to be one of the best if not the best player in the world, and keeping him quiet twice won’t be easy. Ntamack looked pretty comfortable on his return from injury and will be ably supported by Danty and Fickou in midfield. Jesse Kriel gave a good account of himself defensively last week but Danty and Fickou are probably a bit hotter with ball in-hand than Henshaw and Ringrose. The true terror of the backline however is who I believe to be the best winger in the world – Damian Penaud who could probably give even 2019 Kolbe a run for his money.

France is your best bet

At the most superficial and simplified level, I think the Boks have too much to fix to win this game. I won’t unpack my flyhalf worries again, nor will I express my concern over our pack’s physicality and fitness for a second time. All I’ll say is that I think the French are better player-for-player in at least 10 positions right now. They’re confident and playing at home, whilst the Boks are probably still a bit bleak about Ireland. That being said, a beaten Springbok team is often a very dangerous Springbok team, so hopefully that might awaken a few demons and bring them back to life when it counts. 
Even if they do – I have the French winning by 5 or more.

It will probably still be a fairly tight contest, because even an average Springbok team is pretty damn good, but the French quality and stamina will probably have the edge on them in the end. Let’s see what happens.  

Ireland are the bookies favourites against the Boks

The entire population of the country of Ireland is just over 5 million people, which makes their position as the number one ranked Men’s rugby nation in the world even more impressive.

Off the back of a first-ever series win against the All Blacks and an outstanding 6 Nations campaign, the Irish host a somewhat unpredictable Springbok side in Dublin, where South Africa haven’t won a test match since 2012. The last time the two teams faced each other in the Emerald Isle was in November 2017 and Ireland thrashed the Boks 38-3 – a record win for the men in green. But just two years later the Springboks won the 2019 World Cup with arguably the most dominant display from a World Cup winning side in the professional era of the game and Ireland, in true Irish fashion. crashed out in the Quarter Final stage after getting hammered 46-14 by the All Blacks. 


So, that begs the question: are Ireland as hot as we think they are? Do they have the gas to trounce a Southern hemisphere titan like the Springboks or are they only as good as their Northern hemisphere counterparts allow them to be? The bookies think that they’re strong enough – Ireland are favourites to beat the Boks on Saturday by just a smidge, even though they are yet to release their line-up for the game.

Boks still worth a bet

The Boks announced their line-up on Wednesday and there are certainly some talking points that have arisen as a result.

Cheslin Kolbe returns to the team for his first appearance since breaking his jaw against Wales in July. The World Cup winning phenom will be donning the number 15 jersey for the first time since he played for the Baby Boks in the 2013 u20 World Cup. His back three compadrés will be young hotshot Kurt-Lee

Arendse who impressed massively earlier on this year before getting suspended for a mid-air collision, and Mr. Dependable On Attack Makazole Mapimpi. 

A back three as dynamic and electric as these lads could be the difference in a game that is likely to be fought by the forwards. If they’re given a sniff, or even the tiniest bit of space, they’re likely to punish the Irish who aren’t necessarily used to a trio of hot-stepping, hard-to-catch athletes such as these.

Manie Libbok will have to wait to get his first test call-up as the number 10 jersey goes to Damian Willemse, who’s been impressive of late but is yet to completely live up to his billing as one of world rugby’s finest young players. Since joining the Boks in 2019, Willemse has played at 10, 12, 14 and 15 – but played most of his breakthrough rugby at flyhalf. On Saturday he’ll be tested to his limit by Irish icon Jonny Sexton who will be running out for his 111th test in green.

Willemse will be joined in midfield by Damian De Alllende who has absolutely silenced the haters and made the 12 jersey his own since the end of 2018. 

One of my biggest concerns in the backline is Jesse Kriel. Sure, it’s arguable that nobody in the world is a suitable enough replacement for Lukhanyo Am at outside centre, but Kriel has a knack of disappearing whenever he plays for the Boks. I’m assuming he’ll be lining up against either Robbie Henshaw or Gary Ringrose who have over 100 caps between the two of them. What Am does so well is exactly what Kriel doesn’t. He marshals the backline and organises the Bok defence with poise, grace and dominance – where Kriel is known to miss a tackle, drift and open up gaps. No doubt Andy Farrell will be targeting Kriel at 13 and getting Henshaw, Hansen, Ringrose and potentially Stockdale revved up to run directly down Kriel’s channel.

Which pack do you back?

South Africa have been saved by their front row on more than one occasion over the last couple of years. Whichever combination gets picked is used to dominating the scrum and winning loads of front-foot ball for the backs. This weekend’s edition of the Bok Big Boys sees Malherbe, Marx and Kitshoff starting in front, with Mbonambi, Nche and Koch supporting from the bench. All of them adept rugby players, all of them big scrummagers. But if there’s another front row in World Rugby worth betting on, it’s the Irish. Sheehan, Furlong, Porter, Herring, Bealham and Healey are all large lads who absolutely love getting stuck in at scrum time and in open play. You might argue that they move around the park better than the Bok front row does, which means our loose forwards and Marx/Mbonambi will have to be even stronger at the breakdown against a mobile front row that gets to rucks with more efficiency than most.

In the second and back rows, Ryan, van der Flier, Doris, Beirne and O’Mahony are all proper hard-men with skills to boot, whilst Etzebeth, de Jager and du Toit are amongst the best in their position on their day. Jasper Wiese starts at the back of the scrum with captain Kolisi occupying the blindside flanker role. 
We’ve seen glimpses of Kolisi at his best against Argentina and New Zealand but we’ll need to see him step up even more against a dynamic and tough Irish back row. Wiese is a machine in the Premiership but is yet to properly announce himself on the international stage and, considering his opposite number is the ever-impressive Caelan Doris, he will really need to be on form. It looks like Duane Vermeulen’s time is up, so there’s no better time for Wiese to show his mettle and put some Irishmen on their backs this weekend.

All to play for at the Aviva

If it’s not clear yet that it’s going to be a tightly contested, hopefully electric game of test rugby, then I’m not sure what else to say. Players from both teams will be going into this clash fighting for their plane tickets to the World Cup next year which adds another layer of intensity. The Springbok side that hoisted the Webb-Ellis in 2019 is startlingly similar to the team running out on Saturday. Does that mean Springbok rugby has gotten too comfortable or are the 17 players that featured in that World Cup winning side still amongst the best in the business? Only the Irish will be able to answer that for us on Saturday. Their mix of youth and experience is exciting. They’ve accomplished things that no other Irish side has accomplished before – but are they worth betting on?

It pains me to say this, but yes.

A bet on Ireland to win on Saturday is a safe bet. If I had to predict the score line – I have Ireland edging the Springboks 24-18. However, if the Boks win I think they’ll win handsomely. This game will either be a Bok blowout or a slim Irish victory. If I change my mind and choose to bet on the Boks, I’d place a wager on an Arendse brace and Kolbe to score, with Marx scoring two off rolling mauls. Has this article been helpful or confusing? For me, it’s been a bit of both – and such is the nature of the game we’re going to be treated to on Saturday evening. 

Juventus’ Champions League run has ended prematurely following Benfica’s 4-3 win at the Estádio da Luz. With 11 points from 5 games, Benfica have pushed through to the next round comfortably, leaving Juventus with a lonely 3 points and a date with PSG to salvage some pride and a place in the knockout rounds of the Europa League.

While a late push by Juventus ensured a nervous end to the game, it was the uncommon sight of Juventus conceding 3 first-half goals that proved the difference in the game – a rather unwanted first in the history of the venerable Italian club.

If there’s a bet to place right now, it might be a good idea to bet on Juve’s manager getting the sack before November starts.

Teenage sensation Antonio Silva opened matters for Benfica with a 17th minute goal which Moise Kean cancelled out a few minutes later. Benfica then stole the lead again with a controversial penalty courtesy of João Mario. The plaudits of the night belonged to Rafa Silva – no relation to Antonio Silva but a definite ode to the silver linings in this 20-match unbeaten Benfica team – who scored either side of the break with two superb finishes. It was only the efforts of the post that prevented Rafa from scoring a humiliating hat-trick over the legendary Italian side.

The visitors weren’t ready to sit back and watch Benfica extend their winning run though and they came back strong, if somewhat too late, to add two more goals to their scoresheet through the boots of Arkadiusz Milik and Weston McKennie. Both scores were brilliantly set up by young Englishman Samuel Iling.  

It was a night of inventive play and purpose from Benfica and to put 3 past Juventus – again, the first time this has happened in their history – is surely a warning to any other teams looking to face them this Champions League season.

Benfica played with purpose and vision to bag the points and seal their place in the knockout stages.

Paris Saint-Germaine put Maccabi Haifa to the sword

It was the superstar trio of Messi, Mbappé and Neymar who led the dismantling of Israeli club Maccabi Haifa in 7 goals to 2 rout on Tuesday to send the Paris giants into the last 16.

Kylian Mbappé’s ball in from the left found Messi whose outside left foot strike found the net for the opening goal in the 19th minute. Mbappé followed it up with his own superb shot in the 39th minute, the bending right-footed strike screaming past hapless Josh Cohen who had a torrid night at the boots of the PSG stars.

Mbappé and Messi were again on the charge 3 minutes later, this time combining to set up Neymar for a shot that went in off the post.

The Israeli club, 3-0 down, did not give up though and a lapse by PSG saw Omer Atzili’s free kick find an unmarked Abdoulaye Seck who headed home to pull one back for Maccabi. Unfortunately, PSG were quick to capitalise again, this time with Neymar and Messi working together to end with Messi scoring his 129th Champions League goal.

Maccabi came out strong in the opening 10 minutes of the second half with Seck getting the better of Donnarumma with a brilliant header, but it was only a brief respite to the PSG onslaught.

Goals from Mbappé, an own goal from Sean Goldberg, and a set up by Messi for Carlos Soler to score put the game way beyond punters’ expectations and closed out the 7-2 score.

On a note related to Rafa Silva’s almost-hat-trick in the Benfica/Juventus fixture, Messi’s shot off the crossbar denied the Argentinian legend a record 9th Champions League hat-trick.

While PSG go through to the last 16, the spirited Maccabi still have a shot at the Europa League as they sit level with Juventus on 3 points.

Havertz fires Chelsea into the knockouts

Chelsea managed to hold their nerve when a phenomenal fightback from RB Salzburg put their qualification hopes in jeopardy on Tuesday night. 
Nobody could have called Salzburg’s surge as Junior Adamu sent the Red Bull Arena into raptures by cancelling out Mateo Kovacic’s early strike, and for just a couple of moments it seemed liked the Austrians might make the men from South London sweat.

Some pundits were even beginning to question Graham Potter’s tactics. Sterling and Pulisic as wing backs? Sounds nuts. But there’s obviously some method to the madness. It just didn’t feel that way after Adamu’s equaliser raised the spirits of the Austrian’s on and off the pitch.

The doubt didn’t last very long though. Chelsea have been a very composed side since Potter took over and they needed to be on Tuesday. Finally, a touch of class from Kai Havertz put Chelsea back in the driver’s seat. A player with such talent and potential who, besides his Champions League winning goal in 2020, has failed to live up to his billing since joining the Blues. But his strike against Salzburg was simply brilliant. 25 yards out, left foot, bottom side of the crossbar and in. No chance for any keeper on any day. It was stressful at times but at the end of the day, the Blues could celebrate topping Group E with a game to spare.

The fight for last 16 continues

Milan continue to push for a place in the knockouts with a 4-0 victory of Dinamo Zagreb, and RB Leipzig put one over the title holders Real Madrid with a 3-2 home win. Sevilla beat FC Copenhagen 3-0 to maintain a technical chance of being the 

Nobody would’ve bet against them, but Bayern Munich comfortably dispatched Viktoria Plzen away 4-2, putting them through to the knockout stage of the Champions League, dismantling the champions of the Czech Republic after a simply dominant first 45 minutes.

Their convincing win confirms an early exit for Viktoria Plzen, especially when taking Barcelona’s 3-3 draw with Internazionale into account – the numbers and permutations meaning the Czech’s will not be progressing any further. The German giants have now extended their own record by going 32 group matches undefeated in the UEFA Champions League.

It was just 10 minutes into the game when the terrifyingly in-form Sadio Mané put the cherry on top of a sumptuous one-two with Leon Goretzka, showing composure and style in the 18-yard area before putting the ball in the back of the net. Mané, who as of last week is officially the second best player in the world according to the Ballon d’Or rankings, is probably one of the safest bets in the world right now if you want to make some cash off of goal involvement odds.

Then on to the veteran Thomas Müller who doubled their lead, before Goretzka netted two goals of his own to cap off the scoring for Bayern. Adam Vlkanova and Jan Kliment put a veneer of respectability on the score by putting two goals in for Viktoria Plzen but, after having four battered past you in under 45 minutes, you’re going to have to do a lot more than that.

Serie A leaders Napoli aren’t missing former centre back and captain Kalidou Koullibaly too much since he left for Chelsea. They maintained their 100% record in the Champions League group phase and cruised into the knockout stages by beating a spirited Ajax 4-2 at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium. Hirving Lozano and new signing Giacomo Raspadori had the Italian League table-toppers on top within the first 16 minutes, and Georgian wunderkind Khvicha Kvaratskhelia added a second-half penalty after Davy Klaassen managed to get one back for the Dutchmen.

The Dutch club didn’t stop fighting though, and made a big surge towards the end of the game in the hopes of salvaging a point. Steven Bergwijn converted an 83rd-minute penalty to bring the score back to 3-2 but a shocking error in defence allowed Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen a chance to score Napoli’s fourth in the final minute. Which he did with aplomb. Nobody would’ve put money on Napoli to make such light work of a big Champions League group, but their flawless 12-point demolition of their 3 opponents thus far guarantees a top-two finish in Group A, having scored 17 goals in four matches. 

Action from the remaining game in Group A saw an out-of-touch Liverpool discipline Rangers with a 7-1 pasting, to put themselves a point away from qualification. 

Another underdog that’s probably made quite a few Belgian supporters a little richer than they were before the start of the season is Club Brugge, who surprisingly reached the knockout round after a 0-0 draw against Atlético Madrid. The point against the Spanish giant guaranteed them a top-two position in Group B. Atlético now sit on an unfortunate streak of zero wins from three games – and in third place with only four points – after fluffing a number of scoring chances against Club Brugge.

On the other end of Group B, Porto’s Galeno scored one and worked hard to earn two penalties for his side – which were coolly slotted by Mehdi Taremi – as they cruised to a 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen. Porto now sit on second place in the group with two more games to play.

It was not a great start for new coach Xabi Alonso as the German club found themselves a goal behind after only six minutes. In true Teutonic style though they never gave up the fight and pushed hard all game. Unfortunately, the night belonged to Porta’s Diogo Costa, the superb keeper pulling off an unholy amount of top drawer saves. Porto sit second with six points with Leverkusen now seemingly destined to drop out with only three points putting them in fourth place behind Atlético..

In Group D, Marseille gave themselves a sniff of reaching the last 16 with a 2-0 victory over Sporting. It was an error-strewn game that left Sporting playing with only nine men after Ricardo Esgalo and Pedro Gonçalves were shown red cards, one on either side of the break. Mattéo Guendouzi and Alexis Sánchez put Marseille in second place for Group D with a goal each. The result leaves Tottenham at number one in the group with seven points, Marseille second with six, Sporting third with six, and Eintracht propping up the table with four.

Madrid save face whilst Copenhagen beat the bookies

A lot of Shakhtar Donetsk fans were on the cusp of seeing some big returns if they bet on their boys to win against Real Madrid. Alas, they were denied a momentous win over El Galacticos as Antonio Rüdiger scored a stoppage-time equaliser over the home team in their Champions League Group F match. Shakhtar, who went down 2-1 to the Spaniards in Madrid last week, went ahead after an Oleksandr Zubkov header at the start of the second half. Not to be outdone, former Chelsea defender Rüdiger saved Spanish blushes with his own header in the fifth minute of added time to end the game on a very dramatic note.

The draw puts Real Madrid top of Group F and four points ahead of RB Leipzig, who beat Celtic 2-0. 

Juventus continued to struggle as they fell to their third group stage defeat against Maccabi Haifa. The Israeli Premier League club put Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri’s job in danger after they beat the odds, and their Italian opponents, in a historic 2-0 win. Omer Atzili hit the double before the break to compound the Italian giants’ woes this Champions League.

Kylian Mbappé seemed to put Paris Saint-Germain in the pound seats with a late first half penalty, but João Mário equalised at 62 minutes to keep the top spot of Group H a neck and neck affair for PSG and Benfica.

Group E action saw Dinamo Zagreb and RB Salzburg draw 1-1 with Nicolas Seiwald putting the Austrians ahead early only to be denied a victory through a deflection off midfielder Robert Ljubicic.

Chelsea kept their impressive run of form under new manager Graham Potter going with their second consecutive win over AC Milan away from home. Chelsea downed the Italians 3-0 at home and then, on the return fixture, rubbed salt in the wounds by beating them 2-0 after an early Fikayo Tomori red card. The card was questionable and undoubtedly took the sting out of what was bound to be an electric encounter, but the Blues won’t cry as the win took them just two points away from qualification ahead of their game against RB Salzburg on Tuesday night.



Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham struck his fourth goal in successive games to level the scores after Sevilla’s Tanguy Nianzou put the visitors ahead in the 18th minute. The 1-1 draw sees Dortmund sitting second in the group behind leaders Man City, with Sevilla and Copenhagen falling behind.

Incredibly, Copenhagen managed to pull of an against-all-odds 0-0 draw against group leader Manchester City, but it may just come too late for the brave Danes.

Kaizer Chiefs have always been known for special players – players with skills, flair and unsurpassed talent. With the departures of Sibusiso Mabiliso, team legend Bernard Parker, and defender Ramahlwe Mphahlele, the backline has been destabilised and the forwards are inconsistent with scoring goals. We have seen new arrivals like tall Burundian striker Bonfils-Caleb Bimenyimana being introduced along with new signings like former Cape Town City’s Edmilson Gabriel Dove, Lehlogonolo George Matlou. Samkelo Zwane, son of the legendary Eugene Zwane, has been promoted to the senior team from the juniors, the MDC side. This has brought much excitement.

At the beginning of the season we saw Itu Khune, a veteran goalkeeper, being put on the bench and the not much experienced Bvuma being preferred over Khune who also happens to be one of the best ball distributors in the country.

The starting four at the back also included Dillion Solomons, Sifiso Hlanti, Zitha Kwinika and Njabulo Ngcobo. In the midfield, they started with new signing Yusuf Maart, Siyethemba Sithebe, George Matlou, Keagan Dolly and Kgaogelo Sekgota. In attack Ashely Du Preez has mostly been played as a lone striker until the new striker Caleb came along.

Throughout the first couple of games, The Ngcobo’s; Njabulo and Nkosingiphile Ngcobo have been swapped around or simply left out. Keagan Dolly has been hit with an injury here and there while Khama Billiat seems to stay injured and on the side lines most of the time.

How does a coach have a regular starting line-up when it seems he too has not quite established his playing style, philosophy and formation?

Up like a yo-yo

Arthur Zwane’s charges this season have won 5, drawn 6, and lost 4, with goals for sitting at 15 and a goal difference of 15.

The team has rather been inconsistent. Once you think they have it going, they stumble. When we take a look at their last three games we can see the inconsistency. On Sunday the 9th of October The Glamour Boys took on Stellies at Cape Town Stadium. They started like a house on fire with a new striking force of Bimenyimana and Du Preez combining as number 9 and 10. Njabulo Blom was also reintroduced to the team in the middle of the park. Even though they started like a house on fire they still made silly mistakes. In the 29th minute, Nhlanhla Mgaga scored from a miscalculated back pass from Blom and Stellies scored the first goal of the match. It took a penalty in the refs' optional time for Amakhosi to get back. Bonfils-Caleb Bimenyimana took the penalty and did not miss. As soon as the second half started Amakhosi got another penalty and the obvious choice, Bimenyimana slotted it in. A few minutes later, Mogamad De Goede of Stellies was given an early shower by being shown a red card after a tackle from the back on Bimenyimana. Wow, wow, wow, the third penalty in one game in the 56th minute. Bimenyimana took the spot kick making the keeper go the wrong way. Amakhosi ajabulile!! One man, three penalties, one game. This must have been the first hat trick scored in Mzansi through penalties. With one man short, Stellies tried pushing but the Amakhosi defence did not falter. The ref blew the final whistle and Kaizer Chiefs won the game.

Down like a YO-YO

On Saturday, 15th October Kaizer Chiefs took on the inform Chippa United at their second home ground, Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. This time Amakhosi played Bimenyimana as a lone striker with Du Preez as a right winger. There was also a change at the back with Peterson coming in at the goals. The chopping and changing would prove to be problematic for Kaizer Chiefs. Amakhosi opened the scoring with the young man Siyabonga Ngezana in the 44th minute. Kaizer Chiefs were up again. In the second half Amakhosi kept on pressing but Chippa’s boys kept their cool and it paid off in the 51st minute. Goal! And it was one all! But it was not to be as the assistant referee ruled it off-side. Back to 1 for Amakhosi and nil for Chippa United. A few minutes later, Chippa United finally got their goal, a strong left-footed shot from Siphelele Luthuli from range-what a scorcher! Into ez’mnandi! The game kept going and in the 87th minute, Dove gave them a set piece by playing foul. Chippa United didn’t waste any time and took the set piece. Unfortunately, Dove tried to clear the ball and he headed it into his goalposts. OWN GOAL! And Chippa were ahead with two minutes plus the ref's optional time to go. Arthur Zwane resembled an deflated and defeated character. He acknowledged the complacency post-match interview as he said, “We won the game before it started”. Nonetheless they were down. A defeat for Amakhosi and more than 14 goals conceded in 12 games.

Getting somewhere slowly

As they say in the townships, some teams can be loose draws like single smokes sold at spaza shops. They lose or draw. Kaizer Chiefs played against TS Galaxy on the 19th of October and both teams got on the score sheet with a two-all draw. Once again the team line-up changed, with Bvuma in goal and Frosler playing right back with Macheke next to him. This inconsistency in the backline has been an issue for the team. This time coach Arthur Zwane changed formation playing 4-4-3 with Du Preez, Billiat and Dolly upfront. The game started with an early goal from Du Preez in the 7th minute. It took Kaizer Chiefs' former goal poacher, Bernard “Die Hond” Parker, to score for the first time for his new team against his old team where he spent 11 seasons. It was a weird unexpected goal but “Die Hond” got it in. In the 41st minute, Djakaridja Junior Traoré scored for TS Galaxy. Chiefs were now down and chasing the game. In the 81st minute, Amakhosi’s captain Keagan Dolly scored a beauty of a freekick, even the best goalkeepers in the world would have stood no chance. The game ended in a two-all draw.

Once again we witnessed the inconsistency of Amakhosi.

Kaizer Chiefs have become a dog with a great deal of bark but little bite. With all the resources and talent they have, they need to get back to basics. The basics are having a solid spine for the team, starting with one regular goalkeeper, at least three regular defenders, and a consistent midfield pairing and an outright striker. Coach Arthur will get it right – but time is not on his side. Mzansi misses the competitive Glamour Boys, the special team with special talented players who made crowds go wild with their shibobos, vula-valas, and amahalagasha.

“Part of courage is simple consistency” - Peggy Noonman. 

Coach Arthur needs to be courageous and pick a consistent team that will fight for him and the results will come and he will reign at long last.

Rise Khosi Rise! Rise Coach Arthur! Rise!

Will Jose Riveiro be the river card that Pirates are looking for?

Jose is alright 

Jose Riveiro looks set to temporarily halt the revolving door at Orlando Pirates when it comes to coaches. Since Ruud Krol finished his contract with a domestic treble in 2011 – and was, shockingly, shown the door as a thank you for his effort – only one coach at Pirates has lasted for more than two years. 


Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic could have in fact lasted longer. The Serbian’s blood is black and white. He understands not only the culture but the politics at the club as well as what tickles the fancy of the Happy People. He did after all admit that before he is a Pirates’ coach, he is a supporter of the club. That bond made his second coming a joyous occasion in 2017 after the disastrous spell under Kjell Jonevret. 


Sredojevic controversially left the Pirates after two seasons where he went toe-to-toe with Mamelodi Sundowns in the fight for the DStv Premiership, losing it on both occasions. He cited a family emergency for his departure, only to resurface at Zamalek while there was a warrant of his arrest in the country on allegations of sexual assault. Sredojevic’s abrupt departure led the club into a tailspin that they looked to have recovered from under Josef Zinnbauer, but the German coach wasn’t the full package.

Flair and finals

Pirates don’t only want to win, but they want to do so in style. If you ask the Ghosts who their favourite coach at the club was, many will cite Kosta Papic and Sredojevic. The pair failed to win the league, coming agonisingly close in second place. But their teams played enterprising football. Papic is still held in high regard at the club because of the football his team played. 


Krol might have won the domestic treble, but he ranks low in the opinion of many of the club’s faithful when it comes to their favourite coaches. That’s because the football the club played under the Dutch coach wasn’t pleasing. In fact, some were calling for his head at the start of the third season before leading Pirates to their first league title in seven years. 


Riveiro has to do better than all these men if he is to have an extended stay at the club. He showed that he has the most important attribute for being a success at Pirates – heart – when he talked about his experiences in the country. 


The Spanish coach was emotional when discussing the inequality in South Africa. He found it alarming how one country can have some of the wealthiest people in the continent on one block, and a few blocks later have some of the poorest people. This was a massive culture shock for Riveiro who came from Finland which is one of the most equal countries in the world. 


Instead of sounding like a patronising European, Riveiro sounded like a compassionate human being who is embracing his new challenge along with the idiosyncrasies it came with. His heart is an important attribute because the club has been burnt before in bringing Europeans as coaches. They have either been polarising, combustible, downright terrible, or blatant racists with a handful of success stories.

It will take more than heart

But just because his heart is in the right place doesn’t mean that he will always have the Ghosts’ hearts. The Buccaneers supporters are a demanding bunch. The Spaniard has brought solid structure and organisation at the club and Pirates are one of the toughest teams to break down. Nothing highlighted that more than Mamelodi Sundowns, the team with the deadliest attack in the country and who have won the league five times in a row, finishing a match against Pirates without a shot on target. That happened in the first leg of the MTN8 semifinal. 


In the league, Pirates have conceded just six goals in 12 games. The problem has been on the other end. The club went six hours (four games) with none of their players finding the back of the net. The only goal they scored during that period was an own goal from Veli Mothwa in the 1-1 draw with AmaZulu. Monnapule Saleng’s brace against Golden Arrows saved the club’s blushes. Before their 2-0 win over Abafana Besthende, Pirates had taken 118 shots in their first 11 league matches. Of those shots, only 39 were on target and they scored just six goals. 


These numbers just don’t scream championship material. It’s a problem that the club has to quickly address because they have the squad that can challenge Sundowns for the league. But they aren’t ruthless enough to count as a serious challenger. With a man advantage for the most part of the game, Pirates couldn’t break down DStv Premiership rookies Richards Bay in their own backyard. This is the difference between Pirates and Sundowns, when the Brazilians sniff a vulnerability, they make you pay.

It’s time to go all in in

Riveiro has done well in a short space of time. He has laid a strong foundation that the club can build on in their quest to bring the league to Orlando for the first time since 2012. It’s been a massive 10-year wait. If they don’t improve upfront, that wait will continue. 


The club has strengthened their attack with Kermit Erasmus, Evidence Makgopa and Bienvenu Eva Nga who joined a squad that had Zakhele Lepasa, Vincent Pule, Kwame Peprah, Thembinkosi Lorch and Deon Hotto. But none of these forwards regularly score 10 goals or more a season. That means goals will have to be distributed among them if Pirates are to challenge Sundowns who are led by the prolific Peter Shalulile. 


If Riveiro can address the club’s goalscoring woes, this could go a long way in making him a success at the club. The minimum requirement for the Spaniard this season is bringing any form of silverware to help Pirates celebrate their 85th anniversary in style. With this being his first season in South Africa, the management will have some patience. But, with the signings they have made, he needs the league soon as that’s the ultimate prize. And, for that success to matter, it must come with an enterprising brand of football or it will amount to nothing for the club’s supporters who have high standards. 

But where do these skills come from?

Is it the way many of us grew up playing soccer in the township? I say, “Yes!”. The way many boys and girls got into football is through “i-one pal” on the dusty streets of the townships. “One pal” is when two opposing teams set up a brick on one side of the street and another brick at the other end. The bricks become a form of “goalposts”, where the teams score by hitting the brick.

Unfortunately, most of the time, this street soccer style means everyone dribbling and not scoring.

Kasi football doesn’t create strikers

South African youngsters love dribbling and showing off their flair - everyone wants to be a Doctor 16 V Khumalo or a Teko Modise. And “one pal” has not helped in developing players that can strike the ball into goal posts. Rather, it has created players who want to walk the ball into the goal posts. We’ve seen many videos of local players, dribbling, dancing and using their knees to play with the ball – but they don’t go forward and attack. 

And, at the end of the day (or the game anyway), football is about goals.

I think this “one pal” game format has contributed to South Africans being bad strikers and great ball players and midfielders. Only a few players who had the resources or underwent actual development have become true strikers. South Africa’s best striker, Benni McCarthy, became a world-class striker because of development. Training where there are goalposts plus a goalkeeper helps develop strikers. It helps players build up their confidence to pick their spot, know the distance and shooting from different angles.

Want to bet that a foreign national player will win the Lesley Manyathela Golden Boot?

From 1996/1997 to the current DStv Premiership league title, the majority of been Top Goal Scorers in our league have  been foreign internationals. 

In 26 seasons, there have been 13 foreign players winning the Lesley Manyathela Golden Boot even before it was called that.

Local-born strikers have won the much-respected award the same amount of times (13) but something seems to give foreign international players more of an edge and I think it’s their development and how they grew up playing the sport.

Let’s break down the seasons, names, country of birth, club, and goals of foreign players who have won the top goal scorer award: 

1996-1997 Wilfred Mugeyi, Zimbabwe, Bush Bucks, 22 goals 
1999-2000 Dennis Lota, Zambia, Orlando Pirates, 18 goals
2000-1 Gilbert Mushangazhike, Zimbabwe, Manning Rangers, 19 goals
2004-05 Collins Mbesuma, Zambia, Kaizer Chiefs, 25 goals
2005-06 Mame Niang, Senegal, Moroka Swallows, 14 goals
2006-07 Christopher Katongo, Zambia, Jomo Cosmos, 15 goals
2007-08 James Chamanga, Zambia, Moroka Swallows, 14 goals
2010 Knowledge Musona, Zimbabwe, Kaizer Chiefs, 17 goals
2015-16 Collins Mbesuma, Zambia, Mpumalanga Black Aces, 13 goals
2018 Mwape Musonda, Zambia, Black Leopards, 16 goals
2019 Gabadinho Mhango, Malawi, Orlando Pirates, 16 goals
2020 Peter Shalulile, Namibia, Highlands Park, 16 goals

And last season it was, once again, Peter Shalulile, Namibia this time playing for Mamelodi Sundowns and bagging 23 goals.

Even though some local boys have won the Top Goal scorer awards, we also have a poor average on goals. In the 2017-18 season, two SA players shared the award; Rodney Ramagalalela from Polokwane City and Percy Tau from Mamelodi Sundowns. The players both scored a mere 11 goals to win this award – but this was not the lowest. “Die Hond”, better known as Bernard Parker, holds the record for the fewest goals needed to win the Lesley Manyathela Golden Boot Award. While playing for Kaizer Chiefs, he scored 10 goals in the 2013-14 season.

The last South African to have a good tally was Pollen Ndlanya while playing for Kaizer Chiefs in the 1998-99 season. He scored 21 goals. This helped give him 29 international caps with 5 goals scored. This is a clear indication that foreign internationals seem to be banging in more goals at a better rate.

The odds favour the foreign players

With the DStv Premiership already underway, we have seen foreign players leading the goal-scoring tally. Kaizer Chiefs’ new signing, 24 year-old Bonfils Caleb Bimenyimana from Bujumbura, Burundi has been consistent with his goal-scoring. He has said in multiple interviews that he is here for the goals and would like to score every game if not two goals per game. His recent three goals have come from penalties that he scored against Stellies (Stellenbosch FC). Caleb kept taking the goalkeeper the wrong way while slotting the goals in.

Another player leading with goals is Peter “the Namibian Assassin” Shalulile who has also been consistently carrying on since last season. If we know anything about this world-class striker it’s that he’s gunning for the top spot.

So, where are the local boys? Who is the best to follow? Who can we look at and say they can be the winners of the Lesley Manyathela Golden Boot? If I was a betting man I would put my money on foreign internationals, top strikers like Mhango, Bimenyimana or Shalulile to take it and not local boys.

Mzansi players are ball distributors. They create chances but are not good finishers. We lack the killer instinct and I believe it starts with how we grow up in the townships playing i-one pal. The lack of proper soccer fields and resources has kept us from developing and grooming top strikers. This striker issue has been a problem with and for Bafana Bafana, South Africa’s men’s national soccer team. They simply struggle to score. With Benni McCarthy being Manchester United’s striker coach, we hope he can come back and coach other striker coaches. Hopefully this will assist in us seeing more goals in our league and hopefully this can translate to Bafana Bafana being able to qualify for tournaments.

We simply can’t be good at striking for wages and service delivery but not banging in the goals, as real strikers should. We have the talent, we have past examples and we can definitely do it again. 

Daniel Ricciardo is an anomaly in sport, even more so in Formula 1 which is fueled by machismo. The Australian has a smile so bright you can see it even when he is wearing a mask. His smile is so warm, it can fire up Antarctica. The soon to be former McLaren driver, who won’t be in the Formula 1 grid in 2023, is on the far-end of the spectrum of likability in racing. 


On the other end is his former Red Bull teammate, Max Verstappen - the two-time Formula 1 world champion. The Dutch driver has as many fans as he has detractors – and Verstappen has many fans. A sea of orange follows him all over the world. That orange is more pronounced in Europe, with his loud and loyal supporters following him from Catalunya to Zandvoort. The reason why so many love him, and many hate him - is because of how he drives.

Is he a wily warrior or whiny wuss?

Verstappen is either reckless or entertaining, an insolent brat or a fearless fighter - your viewpoint depends on whether you love the Dutch driver or not. But what no one can deny is that he is the greatest driver of his generation. This season proved that without a shadow of a doubt. The 2022 Formula 1 season started as a showdown between the future heirs to the racing throne, Verstappen and Leclerc, whose rivalry stretches from their days of karting.

Going head-to-head with the greatest names in F1

But that competition didn’t last long, with Verstappen dominating the Ferrari driver to comfortably win his second world title.

The two had good cars. The difference was Verstappen’s brilliant driving capabilities and maturity to be able to negotiate his way out of many difficult situations. Verstappen has an almost 80% conversion rate of poles to wins. He has won 14 of the 18 races he has started on pole. The only other driver with a better conversion rate is Bill Vukovich. Leclerc on the other hand has had 19 poles and won just six of them. He is among the worst drivers in the conversion of poles to wins. 


When Verstappen has a slight sniff of an advantage over his rivals, he goes for the kill. While the ending of the 2021 championship was controversial, with former F1 race director Michael Masi bending Formula 1’s rules to produce a spectacle, there’s no denying that Verstappen was a better driver compared to Lewis Hamilton throughout that season. 


Verstappen even broke Michael Schumacher’s record of most podiums in a season. The Dutch driver finished in the top three 18 times, one more than Schumacher’s record which he set in 2002. He looks set to break another Schumacher record, the one for the most wins in a season. The German driver’s 13 wins in 2004 is the record for the most wins, which was matched by his countryman Sebastian Vettel in 2013. Verstappen has won 12 races this season, and there are four races to go. 


Verstappen is a master of damage limitations. In Sochi last year, he put on a damage limitation master class after taking a grid penalty for changing power units. He started in P20 and, when the rain hit in the middle of the race, he made the most of it - going on to finish second behind his rival that season, Lewis Hamilton.

So why is the Dutch driver such a polarising figure? 

Well, for starters he has little regard for the other drivers. Verstappen used to push his car to the edge, wanting to squeeze it in the most awkward of angles as long as he would get an inch over his rivals. Hating him for that is puzzling because the sport has never been for choir boys. Formula 1 used to be a brawl to the finish. Schumacher and Ayrton Senna bullied their competitors, and sometimes teammates. 


Schumacher’s former teammate Martin Brundle once said in 1992, “He has never been able to differentiate between hard racing and what’s beyond a reasonable line, and clearly he still can’t.”


In Formula 1, good guys really finish last. It’s an intense sport where you take each inch and second you are given as that could be the difference between a champion and the first loser. Verstappen carries that spirit of former racing bullies who did whatever it took to win. Inasmuch as Ricciardo is universally liked - he doesn’t have a world title because he isn’t ruthless enough. 


Verstappen has matured a bit. He manages situations better and knows when to risk and when to drive cautiously. But his sharp instincts get the better of him. 


The other reason why some people don’t like the Dutch driver is that he was among those who refused to take the knee in a gesture against racism following the murder of George Floyd by American police who knelt on his neck. Formula 1 is insanely white. It’s not just that the sport has only one black driver, there are also limited black people who work in a sport that employs thousands of people in various capacities. 


The refusal of a future Formula 1 great to be a part of a cause that looks to tackle this, even with a gesture that won’t change anything, rubbed many people the wrong way. He made his reasons known, but in the battle against racism it quickly becomes an us versus them situation. If you aren’t with us, then by default you are against us. 


It’s understandable not to like Verstappen for political reasons, but to hate him because of the way he drives is not understanding what it takes to tame a car that can go at 300km/h. This is a daredevil sport where a split second can be a difference between winning and losing – or life and death. It’s bullfighting on steroids.

Love him or hate him, Max is at the top of his game

The sport was never invented for its gladiators to be nice guys. The fact that your first competitor is your teammate says it all about what it takes to make it here. Verstappen is the master of that. And with his growth, he will be adding to his titles in the years to come. His name is already mentioned among greats, and with the talent he has he can also have as many championships as those greats.

And that is what makes F1 the global spectacle and its drivers some of the highest paid sportsmen in the world. 

The world’s biggest sporting event (in terms of international watchers and betting) is about to kick off in Qatar and, while this particular iteration of the FIFA world Cup is certainly in the news, it’s not always for the right reasons.

Qatar won the bid to host the FIFA World Cup 2022 but has since been the centre of a storm of controversy. Accusations of corruption from within FIFA in the awarding of the host nation, allegations of human rights abuses, the deplorable history of civil rights within the State (especially women’s rights and the LGBTQ+ community), and the shifting of the traditional June/July dates to November due to the insane summer heat in the desert nation where the average June/July temperatures hover around 42 degrees Celsius.

Add in the AIR-CONDITIONED STADIUMS to combat the heat and the associated climate crisis uproar and you can see why the event is being looked on with great scepticism.

But we’re really here for the football and the fans of the beautiful game and the teams that will be showcasing all the deft touches, iron defence, and scintillating goals so we will be focusing on what actually makes the game so great – the teams that will be carrying the hopes and dreams of nations into the FIFA World Cup 2022.

Bets on Brazil

It’s been three years since Brazil lost to anybody other than Argentina, and with a front line of Neymar, Richarlison, Vinícius Júnior and Raphinha, which is considered strong enough to exclude Gabriel Jesus out of the recent friendly wins over Ghana and Tunisia, signs are that Brazil is definitely a favourite going forward. One defeat in 29 games is an outrageous record with the only doubt being that they haven’t played a European team since losing to Belgium at the last World Cup. We’ll be betting on Brazil to make at least the semi-final stage of Qatar 2022.

Argentina hardly a dark horse

Whilst Argentina have had to put some of their biggest star forwards of the last decade to rest, the South Americans are looking more formidable than they have for a very long time. Lionel Scaloni’s side may not be as glamorous as most recent versions of the team, but this Argentina side are dynamic and have created a system that flows and works together as a coherent unit, getting the best out of Lionel Messi. With an unbeaten record of 35 games on the trot they are a force to be reckoned with and worth a bet for the final four.

The reign of Spain

Luis Enrique announced his final pre-World Cup squad in hilarious fashion on social media and, unfortunately, it led to some humiliation as La Roja slumped to their first home defeat in almost four years against Switzerland. But despite the Spain manager saying that Portugal have a better chance of success in Qatar, it was his side who claimed top spot in their Nations League group after Álvaro Morata’s late winner in Braga against a very strong Portuguese side that were given no room to operate by the Spanish. A mix of youth and experience makes Spain a dangerous team going into the World Cup.

Don’t doubt the Dutch 



Whilst none of Holland’s goalkeeping options are worth getting excited over, the 71-year-old Louis Van Gaal turned around a qualifying campaign that had begun badly and has put together a balanced squad that’s been playing exciting football. Maybe they rely too much on the goalscoring prowess of Memphis Depay, but if he keeps scoring who really cares? The team seems fired up, well organised and, with a win over Belgium last month, they could be the most promising Dutch side since 2014.

Germany’s got guts



Germany have the potential to win in Qatar but, like many of their traditional rivals, they’ve got some serious work to do. Hungary downed Deutschland in Leipzig which was Hansi Flick’s first defeat in charge and ,although they were largely controlled against England, they allowed a 15-minute blitz to get the better of them. One can never bet against Germany in a World Cup setting having won the tournament with weaker sides than the one they’re boasting now so it will be interesting to see how Flick can tactically re-jig a side with all the potential to go the distance. 
Subhead (H2):

Denmark can hit the mark 

Subhead (H2):

Denmark were downed by an impressive Croatia a few weeks ago but they didn’t let that get to them. Three days later they beat current World Champions France – against the odds – with an outstanding performance, and they are playing with the dynamism and cohesion that garnered them so many admirers at Euro 2020. Consider the manner in which Christian Eriksen has returned with such superb form for club and country: he scored a beautiful goal in Zagreb and then completely dominated his French opposition in the midfield. Could Denmark push for a medal is the question? We think they seriously could.

Blues for Les Bleus

No other national side boasts nearly as much depth as France does in every position, but that may be the root of their problem. Politics, scandals and an array of off-field nonsense has resulted in a distracted, disjointed French team that looks like they’re running out of gas at the wrong time. Didier Deschamps is also favouring big names that are out of form as opposed to some slightly smaller ones that are prepared to put in the hard yards for their country. Betting on France to crash out early would be unwise – they’re simply too talented – but something has to change if they’re looking to come home from Qatar with a medal.

Croatia are on the mend



There were chats that Croatia were starting to show irreparable cracks after a horrible run of form. That was until the 2018 World Cup runners-up dominated a Nations League group featuring Denmark and France. Luka Modric was untouchable in a 2-1 win over Denmark and scored in a convincing victory against Austria. The experienced old dogs of Croatia seem to have a lot of fight still fight in them and will be hoping to cruise as far as the quarter-finals and hopefully far further.

Football probably isn’t coming home



The English media are a tiresome bunch. They hate their team when they lose and think they’re the best in the world when they win – even if it’s against teams like San Marion. Semi-finalists at the World Cup and finalists at the Euros, England should go to Qatar with a level of optimism, but they’ve won zero of their last six games. Manager Southgate has been making some strange calls and naming out of form players in his starting team on more than one occasion, perhaps because of their status rather than their current play. He has a squad that runs deep and I don’t envy his selection headaches, but his managerial acumen has been the topic of discussion not just in England, but worldwide.

Serbia is ice cold



Never in my life have I had to consider Serbia as a team that could show up on the international stage, but they are in outstanding form. This month’s resounding wins over Sweden and Norway suggest that Dragan Stojkovic has created a balanced and positive side. Their two world class strikers Aleksandar Mitrovic and Dusan Vlahovic were on the scoresheet in Oslo, and the former scored a hat-trick against Sweden. Their group in Qatar is impossibly tough, but so are the Serbians.

Nothing neutral Swiss 


We’re positive that all the favourites should be a little watchful of Switzerland, who beat Portugal and triumphed in Spain with a tactically sound display. They then toppled the Czech Republic with heroic goalkeeper Yann Sommer coming to their rescue with a fine penalty save from Tomas Soucek. This is the finest Swiss side we’ve seen since they defeated eventual champions Spain in the group stages of the 2010 edition of the tournament.

Belgium need to be better

It’s not so long since Belgium were the number 1 ranked side in the world, and justifiably so, but the Red Devils only just brushed passed a Welsh side that doesn’t usually offer much resistance. They then dropped points in a narrow defeat to the Netherlands which was well contested, but defensive woes continue. Belgium has some of the finest footballers on the planet, but that means nothing without structure and poise. Our unpopular opinion? Bet on Belgium to fall out in the round of 16.

A 1-6, 7-6, 10-8 victory over Stefanos Tsitsipas helped Team World hoist the trophy after 5 years of falling short to Team Europe.

Tiafoe’s incredible win saw John McEnroe’s imperious men hit the 13-point mark first on a dramatic and thrilling final day at the O2 Stadium where they claimed a maiden Laver Cup by a 13-8 score line. It was Tiafoe who teamed up with Jack Sock on Friday night to beat Federer and Rafael Nadal in an emotional doubles contest which brought the curtain down on the 20-time grand-slam champion’s glittering professional career, and it was the American who again made the difference 48 hours later.

For Federer, despite everything he has achieved, which includes eight Wimbledon titles, defeat still hurt.

“Yeah, of course I’m disappointed. I was on the team, almost lost my voice and my hands hurt from clapping. We wish the result would be different. I told Andy [Murray] in the locker room, I don’t like losing. It’s not fun. It just leaves not the best taste, you know. I think once you have been there and taste success, it’s just not the same.

I hope tonight can be still somewhat of an enjoyable evening. Of course this weekend has been all over the place for me. I enjoyed it, but it’s unfortunate that we couldn’t get the win.”

Chasing just one more

Going into the third and final day of the competition, Federer still had hopes of adding one more title to his illustrious list of trophies with Team Europe leading 8-4.

Felix Auger-Aliassime had other ideas for Team World with success over Andy Murray and Matteo Berrettini in the doubles alongside Sock and followed that up with an even bigger display in the second match. Auger-Aliassime stunned Novak Djokovic 6-3, 7-6 to get Team World back in the fight and just one win away from the trophy.

It was over to Tiafoe to finish the job but he lost the first set in 21 minutes to a fired-up Tsitsipas. The Greek could not keep his momentum going unfortunately and, after losing a tie-breaker longer than the entire Lord of the Rings Trilogy, it meant a deciding set was on the cards.

During the 10-point tie-breaker for the match – and ultimately the trophy – Tiafoe displayed remarkable resolve and played some outrageously good tennis. He made a drop shot despite starting behind the baseline and also saved four match points to help Team World make history, which in the process spoiled Federer’s farewell once again.

A tearful, triumphant farewell to one of the game’s greatest. 

With Federer gone, it’s tough to know who I’ll be placing my bets on. For 13 years, I’ve been able to back my Swiss horse and more often than not, come out with a deeper pocket.

There aren’t enough adjectives in the world to describe Roger’s career, and so many journalists have given it a try over the past couple of days, but one thing I’ll say is that he’s ultimate proof that nice guys can indeed finish first. Tennis has been defined by some iconic villains, McEnroe and his on-court antics come to mind and more recently Nick Kyrgios and his inflammatory, provocative approach aren’t far off.

But Roger’s grace and style are unlike any other. Not to mention his forehand – famously described by David Foster as ‘liquid whip’. His pin-point serve, his effortless, sometimes miraculous one-handed backhand. Compare him to a prima-ballerina, a ballroom phenom, a tireless titan or gentleman of the game – whichever words you choose, if any of them are negative you don’t appreciate good sport, or good sportsmanship.

Now, over and above my borderline embarrassing gushing, let’s talk about the stats.  There is so much data on Federer’s reign of terror you can lose yourself for days. Let’s start with the 20 grand slams, which is an incredible feat, but for me the most impressive was that he made the semi-finals of a grand slam 23 times in a row without missing a tournament due to injury or choice. Stamina and consistency personified.

For anybody else to achieve the same level, current world number one, Carlos Alcaraz would need to play and reach the final four in every slam until the French Open in 2028 to equal it.

Statistically, or emotionally, it’s incredibly difficult to dispute the fact that Federer is one of the greatest, if not THE greatest, of all time. If you don’t want to take my word for it – we were gifted to one of the most moving moments in sport this weekend when, after playing his final match, Roger was sat next to his longest and greatest rival, Rafa Nadal, both men in tears. Imagine being as good at what you do and who you are that your longstanding adversary mourns your departure from the game. Sport is an environment where you may respect your opponent, but you really should not like them, and certainly not love them.

From a young age we’re taught to want to destroy and belittle our opponents. To dominate them with our chests puffed out. As a rugby fan, I love this side of competition too – but there’s something incredibly moving about the kind of respect and admiration the tennis fraternity has for one another. These chaps play together from an incredibly young age. They’re held to a professional standard from as young as 10 years old. They’ve won together and lost together, beaten each other and suffered defeat at one another’s hands – if anything they’ve got more of a reason to dislike each other. Tennis is deeply personal. It’s a one-on-one game where you have nowhere to hide. And yet, there were Federer and Nadal together, in tears. Two men who, for 18 years, had engaged in competition at the stratospheric level. Nadal was not Federer’s coach or hitting partner. He was the man who frequently hit Federer off the court. Or got hit off the court. 
In the six years from the end of 2003 to the start of 2010 Federer was essentially unbeatable – except when he met Nadal, and especially when he met him on clay in Paris. Even worse Nadal then beat Federer at Wimbledon. His fortress.

And here were two who have been against each other for the longest time, not just showing respect of each other, but love.

It says so much about both. Federer you can understand crying, because his career is over – all sportsmen and women do that. But for Nadal to cry says so much about both. How they have played, how they have fought, and how they have not lost their humanity in the throes of trying to unseat the other as the best in the world.

Before his match, Federer last week told the media a story from the beginning of his career when one of his coaches said; “you have to be tougher and not so nice maybe”. He recalled that “I tried, but it was all an act and I said, ‘Well let me try the nice way. Let’s see where it takes me’.”
Well, I’d say it took him pretty damn far, and I’ve loved every minute of it. 

Another season, another coach for Chippa United

In sacking Daine Klate to replace him with Morgan Mammila, Mpengesi was making his 34th coaching appointment in 10 years. That’s an average of around three coaches a year. It’s no wonder then that the club has spent the bulk of those years fighting to avoid relegation or campaigning in the first division. 

Mpengesi does this because he believes Chilli Boys are world beaters, so when Klate has the audacity to lose to Mamelodi Sundowns through a late winner - then he must go. What are the winners of the last five DStv Premiership seasons anyway when compared to the mighty Chippa United.

It’s unlikely that Mpengesi will change his ways. Mammila will not finish the season as the club’s coach. He hasn’t even been given the job on a fulltime basis. What was low about Mpengesi in appointing Mammila is that the former administrator only has a CAF D License. The license is obtained through a five-day coaching course and is for training children between the ages of 6 and 12 years. There are dire consequences of trusting someone with those coaching credentials, or lack thereof, to manage a team in the highest level of South African football.

But he’s not the only problem

This makes a mockery of the league, but that wouldn’t bother Mpengesi as his conduct makes a mockery of running a professional outfit. The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has made huge strides in going from being managed in the back of car boots to being a billion-Rand industry. With the growth of the game, a lot of things have changed in how things were done. There is a stronger focus in analysis and data. These are areas that the PSL lags behind in, with coaches like Gavin Hunt proudly boasting that they don’t believe in video analysts.

In refusing to adapt to the changes, Hunt does not only do a disservice to himself but also the players he coaches with an outdated approach. But the damage of Hunt’s thinking is small compared to hiring someone whose coaching qualifications shouldn’t see him talk about professional football, let alone coach in it.

South Africa is blessed with raw talent, with skills refined in gravel and on dusty pitches. But what tends to let that talent down is managing it. Many coaches have slammed how there are players at professional level, and even at Bafana Bafana level, who lack basics that should have been taught to them in their early teens.

This deficiency shows itself in the quality of football on display. While a few teams play entertaining and quality football, that isn’t the case across the board with a huge discrepancy in resources, professional approaches, and investment in development. So what Mpengesi did isn’t out of the ordinary, he is just making official an approach that exists in many clubs.

In fact, the PSL has no requirement for anyone to coach in it. It’s criminal that a league that thinks so highly of itself would create a free-for-all type of environment in one of the most important positions. Serious leagues across the world have tighter and stricter measures on who can coach there. Even the Confederation of African Football (CAF) is catching up with coaches who manage in their competitions needing a UEFA Pro License if they are from outside the continent and a CAF A license if they are Africans. The most financially lucrative league on the continent should also have a minimum requirement for people who can sit in its technical area.

It starts at the basics

This blasé approach towards coaching qualifications means that there is no push for former players and anyone interested in coaching to arm themselves with the necessary skills to manage at this level. It’s one of the reasons why our game is in critical condition. Youth football has many coaches who shouldn’t be coaching children because they are teaching them the wrong things that will take years to unlearn. And at the highest level we have dinosaurs and ill-equipped coaches.

It’s almost impossible to solve that overnight, as there needs to be a systematic approach and stronger monitoring of youth coaches. But what is easier to manage is having a benchmark of a minimum requirement that is needed to coach at the highest level. And the reason why Chippa could start with two wins under Mammila is because of the technical deficiencies in our game.

The appointment of Mammila should have raised alarm bells, but it didn’t. It’s not such a wild thing because we don’t see the value in protecting our game. The Eastern Cape has a wide pool of talent to choose from. The province has given us talented players like Klate, Kermit Erasmus and Ronwen Williams to name just a few. But all of them shone in Gauteng, at SuperSport United, who have one of the best development structures and scouting networks in the country. The Chilli Boys could have done something great with that talent with Klate at the helm. But Mpengesi has never been one for the future.

It affects the game, the players, the fans, and the bets

And this is where it gets sad, Mpengesi’s approach isn’t out of character if you look at the big picture of the game in the country. His lack of patience, trigger happy approach and not respecting technical nuances of our game exists all over the country. Mpengesi just proudly wears it on his chest. It’s not just Mpengesi who has to change, but the entire approach and outlook of South African football. Because if South African football was doing things right, and took itself seriously, the reaction to Mammila’s appointment would have been different rather than being indifferent.

In fact, one of the only sure bets you can place on the current state of South African soccer is that the incompetence will keep relegating talented players to a bush league status.

For the product to change, and the game to go to a higher level, it’s important that these things change. But if it doesn’t, South Africa will consistently find itself with a goal scoring problem and having 25-year-olds being viewed as youngsters and only then making their professional football debuts. 

For the last decade, one team has been able to dominate the Premiership and that team has been Mamelodi Sundowns.

With 12 league titles, they are the team with the most league trophies followed by Kaizer Chiefs and then Orlando Pirates. On Friday the 5 August, 2022 the league started with Downs facing fierce rivals Cape Town City away, and came back to Gauteng with a good 2-0 result over Eric Tinkler’s side.

For their first home game, Masandawana were surprisingly beaten by TS Galaxy 1-0 with the Mpumalanga side taking the spoils. 

People started questioning the co-coaches and their choice of players for the starting line-up but, with much faith, fans came out in numbers and the belief that the reigning kings were back and ready to dominate again for their home game against Arthur Zwane’s Kaizer Chiefs  – and Downs delivered with a 4-0 hiding.

The Kaizer Chiefs game was interesting because Coach Arthur came to Loftus Stadium to play. He never sat back and hoped to score on a counter or transition play. The Ka Bo Yellow nation sang with much pride and bragging rights having beaten the Soweto Giants.

A week later Masandawana took on Sekhukhune United in an away game and, much to the nation's surprise and consternation, they draw one all. Words like “see-saw” started floating about to describe the inconsistency and the up and down nature of the results and the points. Fans wanted answers and even picketed at the stadium demanding clear answers.

Ups and downs for Masandawana

Many fans and analysts contributed the inconsistency to the almost 40-plus squad members. It beggars belief to have such a strong line up of players and not have a clear starting 11, something the fans say is impossible given quality of players Sundowns has brought in to bolster the squad.

We have seen the return of Bongani Zungu, the signing of SuperSport United players, goalkeeper Ronwen Williams and midfielder Sipho Mule. There’s been an addition with Ethiopian superstar Abubeker Nassir and Uruguayan youngster Marcelo Allende. This team also released 12 players for the new season.

So, could the inconsistency be from the new players not knowing each other or the Mamelodi Sundown’s style of play? Knowing how competitive the club is, one can only speculate that some of the players are brought in to win the elusive CAF champions league title that the Ka Bo Yellow nation so desires. 

Is the league still a priority to the club after dominating it for so long?

From what we have seen so far this season it still seems so. The club desires to dominate in every tournament, the league included. After the one-all draw with Sekhukhune United, the team responded the way champions should. This season, the trend seems to be to sit back and not play attacking football when going up against Mamelodi Sundowns – simply park the bus and hope for transitional play.

But it seems the coaches have planned around this.

No team can defend for 90 minutes without losing concentration at some point, hence the last four games which have been won with late goals by the Pretoria side. Masandawana beat Stellenbosch (3-0) at home, followed by Gavin Hunt's charges, SuperSport United (2-1), followed by a tough and last-line defending Chippa United team that put Downs under pressure until they scored in the last few minutes of the game. The trend to score in the last few minutes continued when Downs beat Golden Arrows at home and then played a frustrating and tough tackling game against AmaZulu, also at home, as they came out victorious at 1-0.

Is it cohesion, tactics, or the co-coaching phenomenon?

Could there be trouble in paradise or were the first few games a new team with new players and a new style? Are the three co-coaches drifting apart or is it a matter of other DStv Premiership teams being able to figure out Mamelodi Sundown’s style of play? With three headstrong coaches and a fiery young Rhulani, are the gentlemen seeing the future the same way? Is there a clash of ideas and starting line-ups that compromises consistency? Within the trio, is there equality in idea sharing and planning?

These are some questions to be asked as the season unfolds. This co-coaching system can only be found in South Africa. Is it the way of the future or were the Mamelodi Sundowns management too scared to promote and demote when coach Pitso left?

As a betting nation, we want to see strong teams challenge for national honours and international glory.

The DStv Premiership teams need to come up with various ways to play and figure out Mamelodi Sundowns’ style of play. From trying to play toe-to-toe to parking the bus and hoping for a breakthrough in a counterattack, for the DStv Premiership to be the most watched in Africa, we need teams to be more tactical and compete at the high standard of these reigning champions. They now need to figure out how to beat them even with the quality of players they have. 
 
Football is more interesting when results are unpredictable and sonke we don’t know what could happen. Having one team dominate means other teams are being stagnant or simply not improving. Idiski lethu won’t compete internationally especially Bafana Bafana, the South African national team, if we do not have other strong teams that will take the fight to Mamelodi Sundowns.

We cannot fault the current champions for their dominance but other teams need to observe and learn from them – even if their resources are a bit more limited. We want idiski emonate. iDiski with amavula-vala, ama halagasha and laduuuuuumaas! We want a competitive league and not ama-obvious “Sundowns is going to take it."

DStv Premiership teams, players, coaches – this is a call to be more hard-working, more in tune with the times, and more aligned with modern football and its new ways.

Because Mamelodi Sundowns certainly are. 

The league is sizzling up with wins, draws, losses and firings. There are hits and misses and coaches on the move.

And there is the Chiefs hopefully rediscovering their mojo.

The DStv Premiership has been nothing but a hot affair lately. Teams have seen some coaches get released, like French coach Romain Folz who resigned from Marumo Gallants. He has been replaced by Dan Malesela who was previously at Royal AM where things did not go according to plan. His co-coaching combination with Khabo Zondo simply did not get the Royal AM ship sailing as fast as they thought it could.

Speaking of not-so-smooth sailing, Chippa United – the Chilli Boys – have relieved Daine Klate of his duties. Chippa United's Chairman, Siviwe Mpengesi, claims that Klate is not fired but rather moved to the MDC side. According to Mpengesi when questioned on Metro FM about the latest escapades at the club that is famous for firing coaches in a wink, ”Daine was coaching the first team, the PSL team, with his MDC contract”. Morgan Mammila and Siyabulela Gwambi will be the first team's coaches in the interim and they have not done badly at all having, won their first  games. They beat Marumo Gallants 1-0 and, before that, beat AmaZulu 2- 1. They have been on smooth waters rowing ahead from the bottom of the relegation spot.

Rise Khosi Rise as they hunt down Gavin’s SuperSport at home 

The relegation spot has not been easy. We have seen the likes of the mighty Khosi almost relinquishing at the bottom but, with the new head coach Arthur Zwane, things are slowly turning around. On Saturday, 17 September at FNB Stadium we witnessed the Amakhosi play the brand of football that has seen the team become the biggest in the country.

Arthur’s Soweto Giants took on former Kaizer Chiefs coach, Gavin Hunt, in what would be a showdown. Chiefs were desperate to get back into winning ways after dropping much important and needed points in their previous two games. The glamour Boys of Phefeni started with the now inform Itu Khune in between the posts. The team starting included Solomons, Kwinika, Dove, the newly signed left back, Hlanti who has shown much improvement since his injury, Blom the young man who has shown much tenacity and is industrious in the middle of the park, Maart, Sithebe who is slowly but surely finding his feet, Du Preez, Sekgota, Binyeminyimana.

On the bench, it was another star-studded affair with goalkeeper Petersen, Mathoho who has not had much game time, Dolly, Amakhosi’s highest-paid player (who has not been on form but still shows why he is the man that makes the big bucks), Alexander, Nange, Frosler, Ngcobo, Mashiane, Radebe. With a substitution line up likethis, things were supposed to heat up.

SuperSport United started with what has become their go-to starting line-up and formation. SuperSport United XI: Goss (the former Mamelodi Sundowns man has been getting game time and putting effort in), Nhlapho, Johannes, and Hlatshwayo who, since leaving Orlando Pirates, is returning to his old self, Ditlhokwe, Bhasera, Mbatha, Maseko, Margeman, Lungu, Grobler. Speaking of Grobler, this man had a couple of chance that he should have buried.

On the bench were: Chigova, Fleurs, Ndlovu, Donn, Rayners, Ngoma, Webber, Sibanyoni, and Gabuza, who has not seen too much game time under Gavin Hunt’s return.

Babize Bonke: Saturday night football is just how we like it

During the pre-match interview Arthur Zwane told the Kaizer Chiefs website, “We are obviously going into the game looking for maximum points.” He continued, “When it comes to results, they’ve been blowing hot and cold.”

The game kicked off at 8:00 pm. It only took 14:47 seconds for Grant Margeman to try a shot with his left foot and BOOM! It went in, leaving the keeper diving to his left side but simply not being able to reach the ball.

Fans were stunned and so was the Kaizer Chiefs' defence. SuperSport took the lead and it was game on. In the 21st minute, SuperSport got another chance through a corner kick. The kick swung from the left and into the goalposts and Hlatshwayo missed the opportunity.

Kaizer Chiefs came back fighting and in the 34th minute, they were denied by goalkeeper Goss. Amakhosi remained relentless. It was at the 39th minute when striker Bonfils-Caleb Binyeminyimana put the ball in the back of the net from a cross coming from the left from Du Preez. He scored five minutes before the break for halftime. The big striker looks like he will be able to help Amakhosi score goals. Just six minutes into the kick-off of the second half, SuperSport found themselves wanting. It was a push from behind on Maart. The big man Bonfils-Caleb Binyeminyimana showed composure and picked his spot and scored.

The game was now really sizzling hot.

SuperSport gave the game their all – mara it was not to be. Their final chance came through a cross at 92 minutes with the ref's optional time being 4 more minutes added on. The final whistle blew and, finally, Arthur Zwane beat his former boss and mentor, Gavin Hunt. Kaizer chiefs win yet another home game. The team stats showed that it was almost an evenly matched game. Amakhosi had 16 shots with 4 on target while SuperSport United had 12 shots with 4 on target. Kaizer Chiefs dominated the game with 57% ball possession, 375 passes, and a 76% pass accuracy. SuperSport United had 43% of the ball possession, 270 passes, and 64% pass accuracy. Matsatsantsa went back home with 2 yellow cards. 

Mzansi is talking, the black and gold have started to raise their voices, is this the return of the Soweto Giant? Is this the return of the Glamour Boys? Time will tell but the team is gelling well. As for Gavin Hunt, he is also building, unfortunately, he is building a much younger and inexperienced side. 

What a game of diski, whenever Matsatsantsa a Pitori meet Amakhosi it is a game worth watching every second of it

But rarely do we see a youngster show their intentions as clearly, and achieve their goal as thoroughly, as young teenage tennis sensation Carlos Alvarez.

In only his second year on the ATP, the young Spaniard has put his desire to win right out into the public space, and tennis lovers and fans – and those players who are set to face him on centre court – would do well to take notice, because he is well on his way to be the flag-bearer of a new generation of stars.

As he has shown at this year’s US Open he’s not waiting for anything or anybody.

He wanted it now, and he got it now.

A meteoric rise

His maiden grand slam title was a lesson in determination, a masterclass in fight, fire, and fortitude as he overcame a fierce challenge from Casper Ruud. Talent has a huge role to play but it was his athleticism, his grit, and his incredible shot selection at the end that paved the way for a 6-4, 2-6, 7-6, 6-3 victory over the Norwegian.

After claiming the first of what should be many titles in a still fledgling career, and even after a gruelling match against a far more experienced opponent, the emotional Spaniard was bubbling with enthusiasm. “It’s crazy for me. I’ve never thought that I was going to achieve something like that at 19 years old,” Alcaraz said.

And it’s obvious that he’s hungry for more.

A new generation of rising young stars

The game of tennis is no stranger to teenage phenoms but something feels a little different about Alcaraz. Winning games, taking titles, and breaking records along the path to his first major victory is impressive enough, but Alcaraz has an even bigger reason to be hailed as the frontrunner of the next up-and-comers. On Monday he will take the title of world No. 1 – and the record of being the youngest ever to do so (more than a year younger than previous record holder, Aussie legend Lleyton Hewitt)

This US Open was also the first time that the match would also decide which of the two competing players would eventually take the No. 1 ranking.
And the second youngest grand slam final since the Agassi/Sampras US Open in 1990.

It feels like the tennis we’ve known for the last decade and a bit is being handed over to a new generation of stars. Now that’s not to say that the old regime doesn’t have a lot of slams left in them yet, but it’s certainly going to be more than just a one or two horse show from here on out.

Talent, stamina, and a fire inside

With a total of just 20 hours and 20 minutes on court, and after having contested three five set matches in a row, it was an incredible feat to win a game against the hardy Ruud. But Alcaraz showed unbelievable stamina and clear talent to answer the big question going into the match: does he have the legs?

And that question was answered most emphatically.

“I always say that there’s no time to be tired,” said Alcaraz. “In the finals of the grand slam or any tournament. You have to give everything on court, you have to give anything you have inside.” That’s easier for a 19-year-old to say than it is for most of the players on the tour, but still – 20 hours of tennis in a week is simply staggering for anybody.

Is he a big bet for the future?

There’s so much about Alcaraz that reminds me of Rafa. There were no question marks surrounding Nadal when he burst onto the scene in 2003 and it would be completely nuts to raise any eyebrows at the pure star quality of Alcaraz.  We knew he was coming, we just didn’t think it would be this soon and with this much conviction.

He’s the complete tennis player right now, and that’s the scary part. He has a lot to learn, a lot to improve on and he’s already, in terms of the world rankings, the best in the world. Could it be another longstanding reign of terror? One like Sampras or Federer or Agassi or Djokovic?

We’re betting on yes.

The world’s premiere football competition is just starting out, but we’re already seeing drama and glory – just the way want it!

We take a look at Matchweek 4 and bring you all the news and updates that will help your wagers on the English Premier League.


Firmino making life difficult for Klopp

Firmino reached a century of goals for Liverpool against Bournemouth with two in their record-equalling Premier League win, adding three assists for good measure.

Regardless of the opposition, performances like this are not to be overlooked. The 30-year-old is in the final year of his Liverpool contract and no longer assured of a regular starting role with the injured Diogo Jota and suspended Darwin Núñez challenging for his place. But his importance, his quality and his entertainment value remain.

Núñez should be back in the picture for Saturday’s Merseyside derby at Everton so Klopp could have a happy headache when it comes to his team picks. If I were at the helm, I’d pick Bobby upfront to show the new signings that a starting jersey is never a guarantee.

The Gunners make it 4 from 4 

It’s clear that Arsenal are a different club from the one we saw last season. In their win against Fulham, Arteta’s men became the only side to win four from four at this stage of the season.

Arteta was forced into making some changes up front. Thomas Partey and Oleksandr Zinchenko made way for Mohamed Elneny and Kieran Tierney, with all eyes on whether Arsenal would retain their early season dominance.

And they did.

It was an edgy affair but the Gunners managed to put newly-promoted Fulham away with a late winner that sent North London into raptures. They’re yet to face another big club, but it looks like Arsenal are a very serious unit this season and we love to see it.

City looking weak at the set-piece

Uncharacteristically, Man City are scoring loads of goals – but they’re conceding plenty as well. They’ve let in nine in their last six Premier League games, going back to the end of last season.

Two conceded from set-pieces delivered by Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze had Pep Guardiola concerned despite the breath-taking comeback that his side managed to pull out of the bag.

The game ended 4-2 but City looked disorganised and non-committal when it came to defending dead ball deliveries from Palace. If City weren’t as unstoppable in attack as they are, things would have ended very differently at the Etihad. A win is a win, but it was an edgy one to say the least for a team of their calibre.

Young Saints’ keeper leads the charge 

Ralph Hasenhüttl signed young goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu from Manchester City and immediately gave the 20-year-old a starting jersey. Bazunu made waves on loan in League One with Portsmouth last season, and now has the responsibility of being first-choice keeper for Southampton. His heroics against Man U, and the undeniably brilliant save to deny Cristiano Ronaldo last November, have put him on the radar. Bazunu is the youngest No 1 in the Premier League and the last line of defence in a heavily inexperienced back line. Another promising young talent is Armel Bella-Kotchap, also 20, who shone at centre-back in the narrow 1-0 defeat to United.

Whilst the average age of Southampton is exceptionally low, they’re playing like a mature, composed unit that might cause a few upsets as the season progresses, especially under the leadership of their mercurial captain James Ward-Prowse.

Sterling at the double for the Blues   

Whilst Thomas Tuchel has admitted that new signing Raheem Sterling is taking his time to find his feet at Chelsea, the England winger put in a match-winning performance against Leicester.

Sterling made the most of his limited opportunities at Stamford Bridge and was only denied a hat-trick by Danny Ward’s excellent save between his two well-taken goals.

But Tuchel expects there is more to come from the man who now has 111 goals from 324 Premier League appearances. “At the moment he is struggling a little bit with his confidence and his dribbling, as you can see,” said the Chelsea manager. “And we were one man down so it was not obvious that he would get a lot of chances to score. But he got three of them and he scored twice. This was super-important, not only for us but for him as an individual.” 
Chelsea, still without a recognised striker leading the line, will undoubtedly be expecting more from Sterling as the season progresses.

Wolves shafted by VAR    

Since the moment VAR was introduced as an official officiating metric in football, it has come under immense scrutiny. The big question remains; should there be greater consistency over referees using monitors for big decisions?

Peter Bankes showed Newcastle’s Fabian Schär a yellow card for a foul on Pedro Neto and was told not to review the passage of play in question, as the VAR had already checked for possible violent conduct. But the referee, who had a clear view of Neto’s challenge on Ryan Fraser during the build-up to Raúl Jiménez’s disallowed goal that would have made it 2-0, was then asked to look at the replay and backed his original decision and let his call stand.

Every angle of the challenge in question left no room for doubt that it was far more than a yellow card offence. If the facilities exist for referees to assess contentious moments in the game, then they should be used. Wolves have every right to feel hard-done by after both big calls went against them in a game that they could’ve dominated had they been given the calls.

Kane reaches undeniable status    

In scoring the 200th and 201st league goals of his career, Harry Kane reminded us he is not just one of the best centre-forwards of his era but one of the best to ever play in England – and he’s still getting better. Sure, he’s a terrific poacher, but what makes Kane extra special is the touch, intelligence and composure that make him easily one of the most deadly players of all time from 15-22 yards – a skill illustrated perfectly in his first goal at the City Ground.

His first touch opened up the entire pitch, and his confidence to take the shot early, using the defender as a screen, meant that the keeper would be flat-footed. Not any striker can do it. Not many strikers do do it. And anybody who is of the opinion that Harry Kane is not one of the best front men in football, doesn’t and hasn’t watched enough football.

Spurs are looking strong, and Kane looks like he finally has the support he needs to take Spurs closer to the top than they have been in years. 

The much-anticipated action took place on Friday, 19 August at the Dobsonville Stadium. The anticipation was caused by the former Swallows FC coach, coach Brandon Truter. Truter travelled to his former slaughterhouse to try and prove his new bosses right and show his former employers that they would regret ever letting him go.

It was a good night at the end of Soweto, Dobsonsville being the furthest township on the western end. The crowds trickled in for the late evening match. Both teams remained relatively unchanged from the previous second game of the season. 

Swallows: Mbanjwa, Lukhubeni, Sasman, Sait, Khupe, Allan, Mvelase, L.Mtshali, Mthethwa, Patjie, Isaacs

Subs: Tshabalala, Musonda, Makua, Lesako, S.Mtshali, Khumalo, Amoojee, Damons, Shwabule. 

Swallows FC introduced their new signing, Keegan Allan on his debut for the club. This former Tuks player was ready for the big time.

AmaZulu: Mothwa, Sikhakhane, Hanamub, Gumede, Mobara, Buchanan, Makhaula, Maluleka, Kwem, Mhango, Ntuli. 

Subs: Amonome, Mphahlele, Zulu, Kunene, Brooks, Magaqa, Zuma, Maduna, Major.

This team is the same starting eleven that faced Erick Tinkler’s Cape Town and took the victory 2-1 just a few days before 

Pressure from the go

As soon as the game started, Swallows put pressure on the AmaZulu back four. In the 7th minute, Swallows striker Waseem Isaac was saved by an outstretched Veli Mothwa, the Usuthu goalkeeper. Isaacs could have done way better in this one-on-one situation. The start got Mothwa reprimanding his side and ushering his defence into order.

AmaZulu started pressing with their former Orlando Pirates player, Mhango. He was getting closer and closer. In the 12th minute Swallows’ Yagan Sasman came close with a header but missed this beautiful chance. It took the 24th minute for the dead log to be broken. Former Mamelodi Sundown’s player, George Maluleke, found space and passed to Mhango. With his back facing the posts, Mhango opted to pass back to Keagan Buchanan. As Mhango ran inside the eighteen area, Buchanan chipped the ball over the defence and Mhango looped it over the goalkeeper. Laduma!!!! 

Another goal for Mhango in this new season. Simple football with great combinations.

AmaZulu started relaxing and tried to manage the game but Swallows FC kept pressing. They eventually got a set piece. The ball was floated into the penalty spot and HALAGASHA it was the debutant, Keegan Allan, who tied the score with a header that left Mothwa beaten. 

One AmaZulu, one Swallows FC at the 42nd minute. What a to start to your league career. 

Go big or go home!

The second half started just like the first – a cagey, tactically astute game with both teams sussing each other out. No one wanted to fully commit nor concede in the first 10 minutes of the second half. 

Swallows pressed forward. In the 65th minute, Lindokuhle Mtshali won his side a penalty. The ever-reliant Abbubaker Mobara looked to have made content with Mtshali in the box, but in replays, it was not the case. A penalty was given either way. 

The cool and clam debutant, Keegan Allan, slotted the penalty home, sending Mothwa the other way. Goal! Swallows FC! This young man is one to watch. It was game on.

It took a few minutes for AmaZulu to get back in the game. After playing a short corner, the keeper simply fumbled it. He embarrassingly allowed the ball to slip through his fingers and it rolled into the back of the net. He was in the right position but just with slippery hands. His protest to save face fell on deaf ears as the referee awarded the goal. 

AmaZulu had come to conquer the highveld. They had come to show spirit, vigour and competition. In true Usuthu style, they scored their third goal in the 89th minute. Coming across from the left side of the field, Mhango headed the ball home. Swallows' defence left him alone and they were punished by this diminutive yet strong player. It was three for AmaZulu and two for the birds. Usuthu made sure to kill the game off. What a game at Dobsonville Stadium. 

The Man of the Match was awarded to Keegan Buchanan. In his post-match interview, he shared, “ We showed a fighting spirit and that was their testament.” 

A Royal performance from AmaZulu

AmaZulu remained unbeaten. Swallows, having lost at home, need to go back to the drawing board, they simply can’t go up in goals and have teams come back, draw and lead them. They need to keep their shape and structure with or without the ball. 

The season is long and we hope it will be a season of more five-star games such as this. Five goals in one game are much appreciated. This victory should be a welcome present to the new Zulu King, iNkosi Misuzulu ka Zwelithini.

The DStv Premiership is sizzling hot and anything and everything can happen in this beautiful game. Ya, monate wa bholo was on full display. Halala ibhola lethu. 

Mzansi football is back! The DStv Premier League has returned and what a tricky few games for both the reigning champs, Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs. 

The league started on Saturday, 6 August with Kaizer Chiefs taking on Mamkhize’s Royal AM, led by the newly announced co-coaching combination of Khabo Zondo, who returns from the wilderness and the seasoned Premier league coach, Dan “Dance” Masilela. 

Royal AM took on the new and improved line-up of Kaizer Chiefs led by Arthur Zwane, the highest-paid coach in Mzansi football. The game ended in a defeat for Amakhosi Amahle, losing to Royal AM 1-0. Not the way Coach Arthur would have wanted to start the season.

Amakhosi had to recharge and bounce back with immediate effect. On the 9th of August, Kaizer Chiefs strapped their boots and took on Maritzburg at home, FNB Stadium, also popularly known as Soccer City. Amakhosi came back more convincingly, thrashing Maritzburg United 3-0. The newly signed striker, Ashley Du Preez, scored his first goal on debut for the team only four minutes into the game. Team captain, Keagan Dolly scored in the 24th minute followed by another debutant, 18-year-old Mduduzi Shabalala, scoring during the ref's optional time. This was the Chiefs that fans remember and miss. So, heading towards the match against the reigning champions, they were filled with confidence on and off the field. Warning shots were fired by the Amakhosi faithful as they kept saying,” Ayeye Masandawana Ayeye!”

Champions ‘Downs are looking up, but…

Mamelodi Sundowns kicked off their league challenge on Friday, 05 August. They were up against a team that always gives them problems – Eric Tinkler’s Cape Town City. 

It was the first game of the season and an away match for Mamelodi Sundowns at a packed and full of life Cape Town Stadium. The current champions carried on where they left off with a solid performance, winning 2-0. Aubrey Modiba netted a beautiful free kick at the 61st meeting followed by Themba Zwane two minutes later at the 63rd minute. This time around the Citizens were not up to the challenge. 

Off to the next one, against TS Galaxy on Wednesday, 10 August, a home game at Loftus Versveld. The game started sluggishly but picked up pace with TS Galaxy having a well-executed plan. In the 34th minute, Lefa Hlongwane of TS Galaxy stunned the Versveld crowd and the rest of Mzansi with a stunning goal. BOOM! TS Galaxy 1 – Mamelodi Sundowns 0. Looking desperate, Downs kept playing the ball with no luck. The final whistle was blown and it was done, Sundowns suffering an unexpected defeat. How would they reply to their next match against Kaizer Chiefs who were on a high after their victory.

Fans’ money was on Chiefs

The banter had already started way before the first kick. The chimes and songs were created and the date was set, Saturday, 13 August and it was going down in Pretoria. Sundowns had the home game advantage playing in front of their home crowd, the Ka Bo Yellow nation. Before the game even started, crowds had packed the stadium and, in a surprise announcement,  one of their own – former star midfielder Bongani Zungu – was revealed as a new Sundowns player. Bongani has made a return after six years of plying his trade in Europe and winning the league with the Scottish club, Rangers. This set the tone for what would be a day full of shock and surprises.

The kick-off was at 15:00 with Victor Gomes being the referee of this big occasion. Mamelodi Sundowns started with their new goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams, between the posts. Rushine De Reuck, Andile Jali (who captained the side), Brian Onyango, and Mudau marshalled the defence with Jali assisting the midfield. Teboho Mokoena, Themba Zwane, and Neo Maema controlled the midfield with Modiba, Sirino, and Peter Shalulile attacking.

Kaizer Chiefs started with Bruce Bavuma as the goalie. Njabulo Blom, Zitha Kwinika, Siyabonga Ngezana, and Reeve Fosler shored up the defense. The midfield was occupied by Yusuf Maart, the experienced Cole Alexander, Siyethemba Sithebe, and Dillan Solomons. The one-of-a-kind combination of Khama Billiat and Keagan Dolly took on the role of strikers hoping to bring back the glory days they once shared together.  

Kaizer Chiefs kicked off. Sundowns started pressing from the onset, putting pressure on the KC defence. A mistake was bound to happen and, at the 6th minute, it did. Goalie Bavuma passed to defender Kwinika who passed to Ngezana inside the box. Sirino crept from the middle of the park to put pressure on Ngezana who fumbled his first touch and under pressure tried to pass back to the goalie but it was too late. Sirino snuck in, stole the ball, and it was a goal! Sundowns 1-0 Kaizer Chiefs. What a mistake, trying to play out from the back. Chiefs had panicked as pressure piled from Sundowns.

At the 15th minute, Neo Maema turned Siyethemba Sithebe and gave a champagne pass to Peter Shalulile who was already in the middle of the box. Ngezana fouled Shalulile and without any hesitation, Victor Gomes pointed to the spot. Penalty! In a case of mistaken identity or foul mouth from the player, Kwinika got a yellow card instead of Ngenzana. Peter Shalulile took the spot kick with confidence and BAM! Sundowns 2! No one was expecting this in the first half. 

The “Namibian assassin” was up and running with a goal. Amakhosi tried attacking and playing from the flanks. In the 49th minute, Reeve Fosler missed a clear-cut chance, leaving Coach Zwane taking off his glasses not believing his eyes. 

‘Downs continue to dominate in the 2nd

The second half started with Sundowns building from the back, playing their typical one-way traffic inter-passing style. It didn’t take long for Peter Shalulile to find the back of the net. HALAGASHA! Peter scores again! He got his second goal with an assist coming from the ever-green Themba “Mshishi” Zwane. Kaizer Chiefs allowed Mamelodi Sundowns to play from the back right up to the front and score without much difficulty. 

This pushed some Amakhosi fans to slowly walk out of the stadium, a sight we have not seen in years.

Class was in session with lessons being learnt. Mamelodi Sundowns 3-0 Kaizer Chiefs at the 52 minute mark! 

Mamelodi Sundowns made a substitution by introducing Abubeker Nassir, the Ethiopian international, who made an immediate effect. The dribbling wizard made an impact, dribbling his way into the penalty box and scoring in the 75th minute. What a way to introduce himself! Even if Khama Billiat had scored the second-half penalty, 13 August was not Amakhosi’s day. The current champions were just superior. 

Game over!

Prrr, Prrr, Prrr Victor Gomes blew the final whistle three times after 2 additional minutes. It was game over. Too much for KC to handle. School was out and it was game over for the students and kudos to the masters of the day. 

As we all witnessed, Amakhosi are in the building phase, the team is yet to gel but will need to bounce back soon for their coach and fans’ sake. They had their fair chances but the strongest team won. Once again, last season's Top Goal scorer Peter Shalulile bagged the man of the match trophy after an amazing performance. 

Mamelodi Sundowns proved that class is forever and form is temporary. 

Spurs’ Bissouma worthy of a start 


Conte got the backing he needed from the usually frugal Spurs board but until he starts to use his new signing more effectively it will feel like a bit of a waste. Of course Conte will continue to select the team that earned Tottenham a spot in the Champions League, but new signing Yves Bissouma is making a strong case for himself in central midfield where Spurs are struggling to take control of the game.  It’s true that Pierre-Emile Højbjerg scored a crucial goal against Chelsea, but it’s equally true that they were lucky to be only one down at the time. Højbjerg is a hard working midfielder, but his lack of speed and vision remain a big problem for his team – especially given Conte’s preference of a 3-4-3 formation that leaves Spurs wanting in the middle of midfield. Bissouma, on the other hand, is quicker to the ball, stronger once he’s got it and smarter in moving it around the park. He’s the more complete player and if the draw against Chelsea on the weekend has shown us anything it’s that Tottenham need a player like him, and they’ve got one. Now it’s time for Conte to give him the nod.

Haaland making moves at City 



Even though Erling Haaland only had eight touches in Saturday’s cruise against Bournemouth, where City enjoyed almost all of the possession, the Norwegian did remarkable work to set up Ilkay Gündogan’s opener with two of his touches. He is not there to be part of the build-up every time – Pep Guardiola has signed him to score. Which he did twice last week in his first ever Premier League game. In the post-game press conference Kevin de Bruyne had this to say about Haaland’s goalless game: “I think he did well today. If he doesn’t score they will say it but he set up the first goal, he had a couple of chances and he was there,” “He helped us make these chances, he did what he had to do and on another day he will score. It’s all good for me.” Haaland’s career record speaks for itself. There is no doubt his arrival has changed City’s style, which will keep opponents on their toes. The focus should be on what he does, rather than what he doesn’t do. It’s remarkable that we’re having these discussions about him just two games in.

Leicester looking thin two games in.

After watching Arsenal new boy Gabriel Jesus spearhead a 4-2 victory on Saturday against Brendan Rogers Leicester City this weekend, it was clear that Rogers was frustrated. Having made the goalkeeper Alex Smithies their first signing of the window last week on a free transfer, financial difficulties mean the club that finished fifth in successive seasons and won the FA Cup in 2021 must sell players first before any recruitment is possible, with Chelsea expected to follow up on their interest in Wesley Fofana this week. Rogers’ managerial acumen can’t be called into question, but without the adequate monetary support there’s only so much he can do. He didn’t hold back after this weekend’s loss to the Gunners: “It’s just unfortunate because I’m an ambitious coach and I came here to challenge the established order at the top end of the league. But for that you need to constantly evolve and improve, but I respect the club and I trust the club and if we can’t then my focus goes on to the existing players we have and trying to maximise their potential.” Leicester can kiss their top 6 ambitions goodbye if they don’t get out the cheque book.

United ripped to shreds by Brentford.

Thomas Frank and Brentford executed their tactical plan against United expertly on the weekend, downing the Red Devils 4-0 in a historic win for the Bees. A historic, celebratory day for Brentford was one of sheer embarrassment for United. Their display was so incredibly poor, and Erik ten Hag could not have had a worse start to his career at the helm. He’s already in severe danger of being given the boot if United’s history of sacking manager’s is anything to go by. They looked a team incapable of playing at the level that Brentford performed at, and there are far better teams in the league than Brentford. New signings have been made, but obviously in the wrong positions, with United’s midfield woes continuing. However, the problem is bigger than the players and the managers.

Hammers lose two in a row

Nottingham Forest registered their first Premier League victory in this millennium. This gave David Moyes and West Ham their second loss in two games, though it was not through lack of trying. The Hammers had a goal disallowed, a Declan Rice penalty saved, and two shots off the crossbar – an indication of their willingness to score if not the actual ability to convert chances into points. Hopefully, at least in Moyes’ eyes, their Europa Conference League playoff against Viborg will help to settle the squad down and bring more opportunity and success, especially if they bring their new signings Gianlucca Scamacca and Maxwel Cornet into play. Pointless and goal-less so far this pre-season, the Hammers’ coach seems to be playing his disappointment close to his chest as he told reporters: “We’re a wee bit slow, a wee bit behind it”. It’s cute to hear in a Scottish accent but West Ham’s situation is far from cute and work needs to be done.

Buendia bolsters Villa

“You don’t pick my team,” is what Steven Gerrard said after being told that his side looked far better with Buendia in it and that he should be considered as a regular starter. Certainly Villa were far more energetic and inventive with ball after Buendia replaced the injured Philippe Coutinho against Everton, the former Liverpool and Barcelona player again showing flashes of quality but not going the distance. It does seem though that Gerrard recognises the difference that Buendia can make with regular starts, and putting him on the field for the game against Crystal Palace next Saturday can only bolster the team as a whole. “We’ve got good options in the final third,” said Gerrard. “Emiliano is one of them and he will start games for me. He was winning the race to start the season and got a muscle injury behind closed doors against Fulham. That forced him out for a week and his training was not at the same level when he came back. I’ve done the right thing by Emiliano in protecting his health, first and foremost, but he will get his starts”. And when he does we think Villa could make a run for top 8 football this season.

Blues hard-done by against Spurs

No matter who you support, Chelsea were far better than Tottenham on Sunday, outnumbering and outplaying them in midfield and dominating in wide areas too. But they still lack a reliable striker up front, and for as long as that remains the case, it’s hard to see them winning enough games to seriously challenge for the title. Maybe Raheem Sterling will fill the gap, but the reality of that situation is that he’s far better out wide. He can probably be relied upon for a decent number of goals this season, but nothing we’ve seen from him suggests that his finishing is sufficiently waxed enough to regularly make the difference when it gets to the business end of the season. Even before N’Golo Kanté got injured, it was easy to understand why Thomas Tuchel wanted Frenkie de Jong for his midfield – he’s of an entirely different calibre to Jorginho – but he would be better advised to find the best striker for his system and spend whatever it takes to bring him to the Bridge. The curse of the Chelsea striker continues. 

Desiree Ellis was the captain of that team. It was Banyana’s golden generation, with stars like Portia Modise, Veronica Phewa and Makhosane Zungu also in the team. That loss was a reminder that having stars and home support is not enough.
 
But before 2000, there was the disappointment of 1995. That one didn’t cut as deep. Banyana were rookies in the international space with the country readmitted by Fifa and the Confederation of African Football only in 1992. It was just a lesson. The continental title would come soon enough. The fact that Nigeria were the winners on both occasions meant that Nigeria had a mental advantage over Banyana. They were this immovable object that Banyana couldn’t overcome.
 
So when Equatorial Guinea lay in wait in the final in 2008, the belief was that things would change. But it didn’t. The Equatoguineans used the home advantage better than Banyana, beating the team 2-1. The honest truth then was that Banyana were just not good enough. Equatorial Guinea were more organised and determined, which led to them becoming only the second country after Nigeria to win the women’s African showpiece.
 
Equatorial Guinea once again stood in Banyana’s way in the 2012 showpiece. But unlike four years ago, Banyana were much better and were even Olympians after making their Olympics debut in the 2012 Games in London. That trip to England washed away the tears of the near misses before it. It also strengthened the team after being blown away by Sweden and Canada but salvaging some pride with a 0-0 draw with Japan who had already qualified for the next round.   
 
Despite that, the Wafcon was a tall bridge for Banyana to climb. They once again lost to Equatorial Guinea. This time around, they did beat Nigeria – eliminating the Super Falcons in the semifinals. That was Banyana’s first win over Nigeria in a competitive game. By the time they reached the final, they had exerted themselves too much as the match against Nigeria felt like a final before the final.
 
Women’s football was restructured after that in South Africa. The South African Football Association (Safa) made it a policy that only women would coach the women’s national team. Vera Pauw replaced Joseph Mkhonza, and took the team to another level tactically. But the Dutch coach's failure to get the country's cultural dynamics meant there were limitations to her tenure, antagonising players and losing the dressing room over instructions that they shouldn't sing before a match as it wastes energy. 
 

Enter Desiree Ellis.

The former Banyana captain spent over a year holding the job in the interim. She was given the post on a fulltime basis before the 2018 Wafcon. The team continued to show they were over Nigeria being their bogey team. They beat the side in the group stage and comfortably cruised to the final where they faced the Super Falcons. Reaching the final meant that they had qualified for the World Cup for the first time. Cape Coast was festive when Banyana made that history.
 
Ellis – who had kept the t-shirts that were written “Canada here we come”, with the team thinking they would qualify for the showpiece by finishing third in Namibia in 2016 – finally would be going to the World Cup. The loss to Nigeria in the final was hard, but the World Cup qualification cushioned that disappointment.
 
When the team left Ghana, they were driven in their belief that they would be African champions. A number of the team’s players received contracts abroad and Banyana matured. They went to Morocco as one of the favourites with a settled team that had a good blend of experience and youth. They once again got the better of Nigeria in the opening round. In the final, they had to face the hosts. Morocco were no match, as by now Banyana had mastered how to take on a team in the final in their own backyard. They put the pressure on Morocco from the onset, comfortably controlling the match.
 
The tears that flowed after the final were tears of joy with the side finally conquering the continent. It took 30 years, but the team finally laid their hands on the most prized possession in women’s football in the continent.
 
Judging by the team they have, this trophy will call South Africa home for many years to come. The side has what it takes to defend their trophy in 2024. The veterans – apart from Noko Matlou and Janine van Wyk – still have more years in their legs. The spine of the team is made up of Thembi Kgatlana, Refiloe Jane, Jermaine Seoposenwe, Lebogang Ramalepe, Andile Dlamini and Hildah Magaia who will be with the side in the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand and also in 2024.
 
Ellis has done well in refreshing the team while also strengthening it. Most dynasties have struggled with that, with players growing old together and then failing to reclaim their glory. This team has a core that will still be in the game for years to come, while its youth brigade are shining in the side which puts them in a good position to take over the baton when they have to.
 
The team’s makeup, as well as the winning mentality that Ellis has instilled, means that this Wafcon success is just the start of continental dominance. Beating Nigeria was massive, as it ended the mental stranglehold the team has had over Banyana. This side not only has the Wafcon to prove that they are the best team in Africa, but also the belief that they are the best in the continent and will hold that position for a long time.  

Now we need to show the rest of the world that Banyana Banyana are here to play.

The Wallabies went down to a recovering Eddie Jones-coached England in the 3^rd of 3 tests just one week after the Aussies broke their 6 year losing streak against the English in the first test. England forced the decider after downing Australia at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane and went on to clinch the series after winning the 3^rd test 21-17 in a nailbiter at the iconic SCG.

In more surprising new, Andy Farrel’s Irish side triumphed over the All Blacks for the first time in history, winning the series 2-1 after losing the first match of the series in Christchurch. In the second Test, in Dunedin, Ireland prevailed by 23-12 securing their first victory against the All Blacks on New Zealand soil, and their fourth win over New Zealand ever. They then nailed down their landmark series win in after holding off a second-half fightback to secure a stunning 32-22 success from an epic encounter in Wellington.

Argentina made history against Scotland in Santiago del Estero. A last second try from Emiliano Boffelli gave Los Pumas a 34-31 victory and a series win against Scotland two games to one.

And the Springboks won their series against Wales, but it was hardly the walkover that everybody predicted. South Africa took the lead in the test series, beating Wales 32–29 in Pretoria but then a week later, Wales made history with their first ever test victory in South Africa, levelling the series by winning 13–12, albeit against what many considered to be a Springbok ‘B’ team. The Boks then won the decider in Cape Town with a comprehensive 30-14 victory that put a halt to what would have been an uncommon display of Northern Hemisphere dominance.

Now, with the July internationals firmly in the rear-view, it’s time for the Southern giants to battle each other and decide who will be the kings below the equator.

Australia vs Argentina

Michael Cheika’s Argentina will face off against his former Wallaby side on home soil this Saturday and both sides will welcome some familiar faces that were missing during the July internationals.

Quade Cooper returns after missing the entire England series with a calf strain to guide the team from No.10, with Hunter Paisami, as expected, alongside Len Ikitau at inside centre. Gibbon was called up after an impressive performance in the Australia A games in Fiji and following injuries to Angus Bell and Scott Sio in the England series. The 6-2 bench split means there is no spot for Reds stars James O’Connor and Suli Vunivalu, who made his debut in in the decider against Engalnd, while Jock Campbell also gets the skip – again.

Michael Cheika has made nine changes to the team that downed Scotland dramatically in July. Six of the changes are in the forwards where Julian Montoya returns as captain after a back injury to replace Agustin Creevy. Forwards Thomas Gallo, Joel Sclavi, Guido Petti, Santiago Grondona and Facundo Isa missed out on starting spots to Manuel Tetaz Chaparro, Francisco Gomez, Matias Alemanno, Juan Martin Gonzalez Samso and Marcos Kremer. In the backs, Tomas Cubelli replaces Lautaro Bazan Velez, at No.9Jeronimo de la Fuente is in at 12 for Matias Moroni and Santiago Cordero is named at 14 wing instead of Bautista Delguy.

Wallabies:1.  James Slipper 2. Folau Fainga’a 3. Allan Alaalatoa 4. Darcy Swain 5. Matt Philip 6. Jed Holloway* 7. Michael Hooper (c) 8. Rob Valetini 9. Nic White 10. Quade Cooper 11. Marika Koroibete 12. Hunter Paisami 13. Len Ikitau 14. Jordan Petaia 15. Tom Wright

Replacements:  16. Lachlan Lonergan 17. Matt Gibbon* 18. Taniela Tupou 19. Nick Frost 20. Rob Leota 21. Pete Samu 22. Jake Gordon 23. Reece Hodge

Argentina: 1. Nahuel T. Chaparro, 2. Julian Montoya (c), 3. Francisco Gomez Kodela, 4. Matias Alemanno, 5. Tomas Lavanini, 6. Juan Martin Gonzalez, 7. Marcos Kremer, 8. Pablo Matera, 9. Tomas Cubelli, 10. Santiago Carreras, 11. Emiliano Boffelli, 12. Jeronimo De La Fuente, 13. Matias Orlando, 14. Santiago Cordero, 15. Juan Cruz Mallia.

Replacements:  16. Agustin Creevy, 17. Mayvo Vivas, 18. Joel Sclavi, 19. Santiago Grondona, 20. Rodrigo Bruni, 21. Lautaro Bazan Velez, 22. Tomas Albornoz, 23. Matias Moroni.

Our prediction: Argentina 29 – Australia 20

South Africa vs New Zealand 

There’s no

The usually unplayable Southern Hemisphere sides were given a real run for their money in the July Internationals against Northern Hemisphere opposition.

The Wallabies went down to a recovering Eddie Jones-coached England in the 3^rd of 3 tests just one week after the Aussies broke their 6 year losing streak against the English in the first test. England forced the decider after downing Australia at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane and went on to clinch the series after winning the 3^rd test 21-17 in a nailbiter at the iconic SCG.

In more surprising new, Andy Farrel’s Irish side triumphed over the All Blacks for the first time in history, winning the series 2-1 after losing the first match of the series in Christchurch. In the second Test, in Dunedin, Ireland prevailed by 23-12 securing their first victory against the All Blacks on New Zealand soil, and their fourth win over New Zealand ever. They then nailed down their landmark series win in after holding off a second-half fightback to secure a stunning 32-22 success from an epic encounter in Wellington.

Argentina made history against Scotland in Santiago del Estero. A last second try from Emiliano Boffelli gave Los Pumas a 34-31 victory and a series win against Scotland two games to one.

And the Springboks won their series against Wales, but it was hardly the walkover that everybody predicted. South Africa took the lead in the test series, beating Wales 32–29 in Pretoria but then a week later, Wales made history with their first ever test victory in South Africa, levelling the series by winning 13–12, albeit against what many considered to be a Springbok ‘B’ team. The Boks then won the decider in Cape Town with a comprehensive 30-14 victory that put a halt to what would have been an uncommon display of Northern Hemisphere dominance.

Now, with the July internationals firmly in the rear-view, it’s time for the Southern giants to battle each other and decide who will be the kings below the equator.

Australia vs Argentina

Michael Cheika’s Argentina will face off against his former Wallaby side on home soil this Saturday and both sides will welcome some familiar faces that were missing during the July internationals.

Quade Cooper returns after missing the entire England series with a calf strain to guide the team from No.10, with Hunter Paisami, as expected, alongside Len Ikitau at inside centre. Gibbon was called up after an impressive performance in the Australia A games in Fiji and following injuries to Angus Bell and Scott Sio in the England series. The 6-2 bench split means there is no spot for Reds stars James O’Connor and Suli Vunivalu, who made his debut in in the decider against Engalnd, while Jock Campbell also gets the skip – again.

Michael Cheika has made nine changes to the team that downed Scotland dramatically in July. Six of the changes are in the forwards where Julian Montoya returns as captain after a back injury to replace Agustin Creevy. Forwards Thomas Gallo, Joel Sclavi, Guido Petti, Santiago Grondona and Facundo Isa missed out on starting spots to Manuel Tetaz Chaparro, Francisco Gomez, Matias Alemanno, Juan Martin Gonzalez Samso and Marcos Kremer. In the backs, Tomas Cubelli replaces Lautaro Bazan Velez, at No.9Jeronimo de la Fuente is in at 12 for Matias Moroni and Santiago Cordero is named at 14 wing instead of Bautista Delguy.

Wallabies:1.  James Slipper 2. Folau Fainga’a 3. Allan Alaalatoa 4. Darcy Swain 5. Matt Philip 6. Jed Holloway* 7. Michael Hooper (c) 8. Rob Valetini 9. Nic White 10. Quade Cooper 11. Marika Koroibete 12. Hunter Paisami 13. Len Ikitau 14. Jordan Petaia 15. Tom Wright

Replacements:  16. Lachlan Lonergan 17. Matt Gibbon* 18. Taniela Tupou 19. Nick Frost 20. Rob Leota 21. Pete Samu 22. Jake Gordon 23. Reece Hodge

Argentina: 1. Nahuel T. Chaparro, 2. Julian Montoya (c), 3. Francisco Gomez Kodela, 4. Matias Alemanno, 5. Tomas Lavanini, 6. Juan Martin Gonzalez, 7. Marcos Kremer, 8. Pablo Matera, 9. Tomas Cubelli, 10. Santiago Carreras, 11. Emiliano Boffelli, 12. Jeronimo De La Fuente, 13. Matias Orlando, 14. Santiago Cordero, 15. Juan Cruz Mallia.

Replacements:  16. Agustin Creevy, 17. Mayvo Vivas, 18. Joel Sclavi, 19. Santiago Grondona, 20. Rodrigo Bruni, 21. Lautaro Bazan Velez, 22. Tomas Albornoz, 23. Matias Moroni.

Our prediction: Argentina 29 – Australia 20

South Africa vs New Zealand 

There’s no side more dangerous in world rugby than an All Blacks side that has something to prove, and South Africa knows that – hence the selections made by Jacques Nienaber and his team ahead of the clash on Saturday at Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit.

Two of the most notable changes come in the front row and the back three. Malcolm Marx gets the nod ahead of Bongi Mbonambi as he runs out for his 50^th test and this is probably because there is no specialist fetcher in the Bok pack at the moment, and there’s no doubt that Marx will be given the responsibility of disrupting the breakdown and getting in amongst it. Kolisi, du Toit and Wiese, whilst all big, physical chaps, aren’t known for being first to the breakdown, so Marx will have a lot on his hands come Saturday evening against the likes of Ardie Savea and Akira Ioane.

The second of two key inclusions is on the wing where URC phenom Kurt-Lee Arendse gets his second Springbok cap in place of injured Cheslin Kolbe. Arendse earned his first nod in the series against Wales in the second test where the Springboks went down narrowly to the Dragons in Bloemfontein. Arendse is full of running, has a wicked step and isn’t afraid to drop the shoulder against the big boys.

The All Blacks have made little changes to their side that lost to Ireland at Eden Park and I feel like they probably should have. The front 3 that got absolutely smoked by the Irish front 3 remains unchanged – so no doubt Malherbe and Nyakane will be licking their lips and hoping to replicate the fury of their Irish counterparts. The not-so-imposing figure of Same Cane retains the captaincy and the number 6 jersey and will have his work cut out for him against a bruising Bok back row that will be looking to make his life hell. Caleb Clarke gets a start on the wing and faces off against the diminutive Arendse, which might be a smart move on the part of the All Blacks, seeing as Clarke weighs almost twice as much as Arendse does.

Overall, it’s poised to be an absolute thriller and we can’t wait to see what goes down in Nelspruit come Saturday night. 

South Africa: 15 Damian Willemse, 14 Kurt-lee Arendse, 13 Lukhanyo Am, 12 Damian de Allende, 11 Makazole Mapimpi, 10 Handre Pollard, 9 Francois De Klerk , 8 Jasper Wiese, 7 Pieter-Steph du Toit, 6 Siyamthanda Kolisi (c), 5 Lodewyk de Jager, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 3 Frans Malherbe, 2 Malcolm Marx, 1 Trevor Nyakane.

Replacements: 16 Mbongeni Mbonambi, 17 Steven Kitshoff, 18 Vincent Koch, 19 Salmaan Moerat,  20 Franco Mostert, 21 Albertus Smith, 22 Jaden Hendrikse, 23 Willie le Roux.

New Zealand: 15 Jordie Barrett, 14 Will Jordan, 13 Rieko Ioane, 12 David Havili, 11 Caleb Clarke, 10 Beauden Barrett, 9 Aaron Smith, 8 Ardie Savea, 7 Sam Cane (c), 6 Akira Ioane, 5 Scott Barrett, 4 Sam Whitelock, 3 Angus Ta’avao, 2 Samson Taukei’aho, 1 George Bower.

Replacements: 16 Dane Coles, 17 Ethan de Groot, 18 Tyrel Lomax, 19 Tupou Vaa’i, 20 Shannon Frizell, 21 Finlay Christie, 22 Richie Mo’unga, 23 Quinn Tupaea.

Our prediction: South Africa 19 – New Zealand 17

side more dangerous in world rugby than an All Blacks side that has something to prove, and South Africa knows that – hence the selections made by Jacques Nienaber and his team ahead of the clash on Saturday at Mbombela Stadium in Nelspruit.

Two of the most notable changes come in the front row and the back three. Malcolm Marx gets the nod ahead of Bongi Mbonambi as he runs out for his 50^th test and this is probably because there is no specialist fetcher in the Bok pack at the moment, and there’s no doubt that Marx will be given the responsibility of disrupting the breakdown and getting in amongst it. Kolisi, du Toit and Wiese, whilst all big, physical chaps, aren’t known for being first to the breakdown, so Marx will have a lot on his hands come Saturday evening against the likes of Ardie Savea and Akira Ioane.

The second of two key inclusions is on the wing where URC phenom Kurt-Lee Arendse gets his second Springbok cap in place of injured Cheslin Kolbe. Arendse earned his first nod in the series against Wales in the second test where the Springboks went down narrowly to the Dragons in Bloemfontein. Arendse is full of running, has a wicked step and isn’t afraid to drop the shoulder against the big boys.

The All Blacks have made little changes to their side that lost to Ireland at Eden Park and I feel like they probably should have. The front 3 that got absolutely smoked by the Irish front 3 remains unchanged – so no doubt Malherbe and Nyakane will be licking their lips and hoping to replicate the fury of their Irish counterparts. The not-so-imposing figure of Same Cane retains the captaincy and the number 6 jersey and will have his work cut out for him against a bruising Bok back row that will be looking to make his life hell. Caleb Clarke gets a start on the wing and faces off against the diminutive Arendse, which might be a smart move on the part of the All Blacks, seeing as Clarke weighs almost twice as much as Arendse does.

Overall, it’s poised to be an absolute thriller and we can’t wait to see what goes down in Nelspruit come Saturday night. 

South Africa: 15 Damian Willemse, 14 Kurt-lee Arendse, 13 Lukhanyo Am, 12 Damian de Allende, 11 Makazole Mapimpi, 10 Handre Pollard, 9 Francois De Klerk , 8 Jasper Wiese, 7 Pieter-Steph du Toit, 6 Siyamthanda Kolisi (c), 5 Lodewyk de Jager, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 3 Frans Malherbe, 2 Malcolm Marx, 1 Trevor Nyakane.

Replacements: 16 Mbongeni Mbonambi, 17 Steven Kitshoff, 18 Vincent Koch, 19 Salmaan Moerat,  20 Franco Mostert, 21 Albertus Smith, 22 Jaden Hendrikse, 23 Willie le Roux.

New Zealand: 15 Jordie Barrett, 14 Will Jordan, 13 Rieko Ioane, 12 David Havili, 11 Caleb Clarke, 10 Beauden Barrett, 9 Aaron Smith, 8 Ardie Savea, 7 Sam Cane (c), 6 Akira Ioane, 5 Scott Barrett, 4 Sam Whitelock, 3 Angus Ta’avao, 2 Samson Taukei’aho, 1 George Bower.

Replacements: 16 Dane Coles, 17 Ethan de Groot, 18 Tyrel Lomax, 19 Tupou Vaa’i, 20 Shannon Frizell, 21 Finlay Christie, 22 Richie Mo’unga, 23 Quinn Tupaea.

Our prediction: South Africa 19 – New Zealand 17

The game however was ultimately settled by 3 Lions bowler Chris Jordan, who took a great catch to dismiss David Miller and stopped South Africa’s surge towards victory with a picture perfect 18th over even if his figures of 4-0-30-0 don’t truly reflect it. After a difficult World T20, Jordan has quietly been back to his best this summer, and he’s easily one of the most entertaining cricketers to watch in the world right now. Unless you’re a Proteas fan.

On the topic of being a tormented South African cricket supporter, the second T20I gave us something to smile about after what we were afraid might turn out to be another heart-breaking summer of losing cricket.

Bowled over

The Proteas didn’t just level the series, they did it with an astonishing 58-run victory over England in Cardiff on a night where once-forgotten Rilee Rossouw absolutely carted the English attack all over the park and the South African fielders remembered how to catch after dropping 6 very catchable chances on Wednesday night.

The South African’s loss on Wednesday in Bristol was due mainly to some pretty shocking fielding, but in Wales last night they were virtually perfect in the field. Their discipline and intensity smothered England out of the game. Their improvement was not confined to catching but nevertheless not a single genuine chance went untaken, with Keshav Maharaj providing the highlight with a ridiculous diving catch to dismiss Moeen Ali, leaving England’s score at 88 for four and their chances of getting close to South Africa’s total looking less and less likely.

The bowlers took their chances and stood up to the English wielders of the willow. Tabraiz Shamsi put aside a dismal display where he leaked 49 runs in three wicketless overs the previous evening to take three for 27 off four last night. But the faultless fielding was certainly bolstered by some pretty impressive performances with the bat.

Bat to their best

Rilee Rossouw, was the leading man in that effort. For the last six years he’s kind of disappeared into the international wilderness after not really rising to the occasion when given the chance on previous tours. But he took centre stage with his first appearance for the Proteas since signing for Hampshire in 2016 and showed the national selectors what they’ve been missing, and what they now stand to gain ahead of the T20 World Cup in October.

Unbeaten on 96 after having faced 55 deliveries, it was only the stellar final over from Chris Jordan that denied Rossouw a deserved century. After nabbing the man of the match award Rossouw shared some thoughts on his return to the green and gold of the Proteas: “To put in a performance like that for my country is special for me. Since Brexit happened I’ve put in some really good performances and the management has backed me and selected me.

Representing your country is the proudest thing anyone can do and today was emotional for me.” Sure, we’re not used to hearing about Brexit in post-match interviews at the cricket, but Rilee’s right – he has been batting like a demon since England decided to do their most England-y thing ever.

Despite the early wicket of Quinton de Kock, South Africa’s openers were steadfast in keeping the score ticking to set up a solid run platform. Reeza Hendricks brought the form that saw him gain his half-century in Bristol, his 53 off 32 including smashing two sixes before falling to the safe-as-houses hands of Jonny Bairstow.

Rossouw reacted to the end of their 73-run partnership as if he was deeply hurt by Hendrick’s departure, hitting 36 off his next 16 deliveries – and one memorable mis-timed shot that smashed into his own chin. Whoever occupied the spot at the non-striker’s end was merely a spectator to Rossouw’s personal fireworks display. It was truly some pretty pissed-off batting and, as a South African, I loved every second of it.

3 Lions fail to roar

While we were expecting a thunderous comeback from England they were, to be honest, rather ordinary on the day although Jos Buttler tried his hand at unsettling the Proteas by attempting to put an unlikely hero in the spotlight. He promoted Moeen Ali after Dawid Malan fell for just five runs. Ali was immense in the first T20, recording the fastest 50 in T20 history, but this time around he had no such luck. He was replaced by Sam Curran, the last of the left-handers, who lasted just three balls to start the inexorable dive in the England performance.

It all began well enough, with Buttler hitting big, beefy strikes but, like it was on Wednesday, his stay at the crease was pretty short. Having scored  a quick-fire 29 off 14, he topped an Andile Phehlukwayo delivery into the air and Hendricks collected the ball before it touched down.

The captain’s innings was only bettered by one other Englishman, and that by only one run as Jonny Bairstow finished on 30 off 21, falling to a magnificent catch from Lungi Ngidi who showed that whatever Barstow could do, he could do better!

Down to the wire – who will you bet on?

For cricket fans, the result sets up a tantalising decider game on Sunday. For sports bettors, it makes picking the odds decidedly difficult. England will be desperate to end their summer on a high and go into the T20 World Cup with some solid performances behind them.

But there is a rather inconsistent international side waiting to throw a huge bat into the works. The question top of mind will be: which Proteas team will show up on the pitch in Southampton on Saturday? What other random forgotten South African heroes could we see next? Who have we overlooked that’s still got the goods? All this and hopefully a bit more from Proteas come Sunday. Our prediction? South Africa to bat first and win by 15 runs or less. Optimistic? Probably – but it’ll be pretty cool if we’re right.

Banyana Banyana played their first international match on the 30th of May, 1993, against Swaziland and they have impressed and grown ever since.

The team has always shown promise and growth despite South Africa not having a women’s professional soccer league for ages. Through the years, “The Girls” played mostly their Southern African opponents to get international experience. Even without a fully functional professional league, South African Women’s football has always been represented internationally at different age levels, including Under 17 and Under 20 plus the senior team. The senior team have participated in the COSAFA Women’s Championship many times and only became champions in the early 2000s. They have been crowned the COSAFA Women’s Champions seven times – 2002, 2006, 2008, 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020. They were runners-up in the 2011 competition.

And now they’re moving to bigger and better opportunities.

Desiree is taking them places

Former captain, Desiree Ellis, is the current Head Coach. Both as a player and coach she has always been feisty, determined and ambitious and that ambition can be seen in the current team's style of play and the attitude the girls have adopted.

She is assisted by Assistant Coach Thinasonke Mbuli, Goalkeeper Coach Cameron Cox, and the technical team. Desiree has been at the helm since 2016 and has guided this team all the way to the 2022 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations.

And what a journey it has been.

Banyana Banyana have certainly made local fans sit up and take notice in the past. They qualified for the Olympics in 2012, followed by the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2019. They have faced off against tough groups and well-seasoned and experienced countries, for example, their FIFA Women’s World Cup group included Germany, China and Spain. It was not a surprise that their first outing on this famous stage led to Banyana Banyana losing all their matches and scoring only one goal against Spain.

But that has never stopped them.

It’s time to rise

The South African ladies do have reason to celebrate: they have produced Africa's Top International goal scorer in both men's and women’s football. Portia Modise, Banyana’s former striker, has netted 101 international goals in 124 international matches. This veteran has been celebrated in Mzansi and she has become a personality of note, being active in fighting for equal payment and recognition of women footballers. She has been one of the leaders and activists campaigning for equal pay, especially considering that Banyana Banyana have done far better than their male counterparts, Bafana Bafana. Unlike “The Boys”, Banyana have qualified for the 2000, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016, 2018, and 2022 Africa Women’s Championship, then the 2020, and 2021 COSAFA Women’s Championship squad, and they have been to two Olympic Games in 2012 and 2016 and the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

This is an incredible feat for ladies who play in a semi-professional league with few pursuing football professionally, full-time overseas. 

It’s all about the passion

Mzansi has had the luck and privilege of finding and retaining solid players who have always availed themselves for national duty and call-ups. Take Banyana Banyana captain, Janine van Wyk. She has always been loyal to the squad, even when she got a huge deal overseas. Banyana’s superstar – and probably the most popular player right now – Refileo Jane, who plies her trade in Italy for AC Milan Ladies, has always answered when the national team called.

Over the years, Banyana has kept the core of the team, the central players who remain with the team through the years and guide the newcomers. Banyana’s top five most capped players have all earned over 100 caps each: Janine van Wyk with 170 caps and counting, Noko Matlou with 157 caps and counting, Nompumelelo Nyandeni with 149 and the tally is going up, Nothando Vilikazi at 133 games and counting and, to wrap the top five, the enterprising star Refileo Jane who, with 116 games at only 29 years of age, will surely be playing for a long time to come. 

Our ladies are simply the best

Banyana Banyana have shone over the years and given local soccer fans many reasons to delight in our homegrown talent and ambition.. 

It has been four years without the WAFCON tournament due to the Coronavirus outbreak, but 2022 has brought this contest of Africa’s best back to our screens and our queens are slaying!

In this year’s WAFCON, South Africa was pulled in a draw with the continent’s most feared team, Nigeria, followed by their neighbours in Botswana and the less known Burundi in Group C.

The first game of the group was the West and Southern rivalry of Banyana and the Nigerian squad. The game ended in a 2-1 victory for Mzansi’s favourite femmes, and defeat to SA for the Nigerians for the first time in WAFCON history. The girls just proved to be more agile and their passes connected better. 

The next game was against their neighbours, Botswana, on Sunday the 10th of July. South Africa won by 1-0. Banyana’s next match was against Burundi and

“The Girls” came out tops with a 3-1 victory.

Having won all their group stage matches, “The Girls” went up against the Tunisian ladies on the 14th of July. Banyana won the game 1-0, with Jermaine Seoposenwe’s 14th-minute goal being the only score of the match.

The result not only sets this amazing team up for the semi-finals of WAFCON, it also gets them qualification for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup tournament in Australia and New Zealand!

Banyana Banyana have proven that, whether or not you have all the resources or the money or the international gig name talents, if you have the passion and determination to work as a unit and represent the badge you wear on your shirt, you can make the impossible, possible. 

And, with a squad boasting all the above experience and the youthful exuberance of players like 18-year-old Nthabiseng Majiya and 21-year-olds Noxolo.

Cesane and Sibulele Holweni, they will be a dominant force for years to come.

Keeping Desiree Ellis and her excellent support team is a must if we want to see this team go even further than ever before. We have the commitment, the passion, and the talent. Now it’s time to say “Halala” to the future legends. This team is the one to watch, and maybe put a bet or two on, for the next couple of years. 

It was the first run out for the newly instated Ella-Mobbs Trophy, the silverware that replaced the previous Cook Cup (named after Captain James Cook). This newly minted symbol of the rugby rivalry between Australia and England was designed by Aboriginal artist Natalie Bateman and features symbolic imagery that celebrates the lives and culture of both Indigenous Wallabies great Mark Ella and England Rugby player and War hero Edgar Mobbs and the Aussies would have given anything to put it pride of place in their trophy cabinet – but they couldn’t give quite enough.

It was not through lack of effort or opportunity. Both teams were coming into the final with a string of challenges behind them. England have had a largely forgettable season, a coach and team that were under pressure from fans back home, and swathe of missing players through injury. Australia, despite this being the beginning of their season and expected to field a fit and fresh team, were similarly devastated by injuries.

But still, both teams were brimming with energy and eagerness, and both teams were looking to wow the spectators and bring home the new trophy. A win in Perth for Australia. A win in Brisbane for England. All to play for in Sydney.

In the end it was the visitors who lifted the Ella-Mobbs Trophy. But it was a collective sigh of relief rather than a roar of victory for the under fire Englishmen. And it leaves the Australians in a rather dire position as they look next to tests against Argentina, South Africa, and New Zealand.

So what went wrong for Dave Rennie’s charges?

Too slick by far

 The stats are misleading. Australia dominated the metres made. They dominated possession with 60% of ball in hand. And yet they could not convert this into much needed points.

Their backs were dangerous, fluid and filled with intent and inventive plays. Maybe too much inventiveness? It’s a saying that is oft repeated in rugby circles, one that sometimes feels a little overused but, like all maxims that stand the test of time, it is certainly fitting: you must earn the right to go wide.

The exciting running rugby on display was overshadowed by ill-discipline, wasted opportunities, and itchy trigger fingers for the sexy backline play before the foundation was properly set up front.

You can’t blame them for wanting to involve their fantastic outside backs, but this isn’t high school rugby where you can just depend on a couple of quicks on the wings to win you matches.

England 21 – Australia 17

The game started well for Australia, led out by Nick White in his 50^th appearance for the Wallabies. They began with intent and pace, an Owen Farrell kick charged down by Nick Frost getting the crowd involved after he was tackled without the ball. An opening score penalty unfortunately denied by a Noah Lolesio miss. Farrell’s restart out on the full and a scrum in front of the posts. White creating an overlap and Reese Hodge flinging the ball to nobody. The white line is an extra defender, not an attacking option, Reese!

Frenetic, frantic, and ultimately pointless – a period of play that summed up the Australian evening.

The Wallabies backline looked dangerous and threatening, exceptional plays, looping runs, and long cut-out passes bringing a 7s style of play to mind. Marike Koroibiete, fast looking like one of the best wingers in the world, continually put the English under pressure with his trademark bruising contacts and slick judging of the run of play. But in the end, it was not to be. The moment Koroibiete smashed into two Englishmen to and over the line was the perfect example: it was a try for all money but not according to the ref. Instead, Australia got a penalty that was wasted through a shocker of a pass from Tupou to Frost’s feet.

Everything looked right except their finishing.

Koroibiete was on form minutes later as he shook off one, created a gap and offloaded to a speeding wright. Wright sent it in to White who returned the favour and Wright went over to score. Lolesio put the conversion over and it was 7-3 to Australia.

That man Marike was at it again after Hooper hunted down Danny Care to force a knock-on. The burly winger ran over one Englishman and shoved another aside on his way to earning a penalty that was converted by Lolesio to put the hosts 10-3 ahead.

England were looking fragile, especially as Australia were finding space through new outside centre Guy Porter, but Farrell steadied the ship with a penalty to narrow the gap to 10-6.

An errant penalty off the posts gave White what could have been a genius opportunity had it panned out but, instead, put Australia under pressure in front of the sticks. England pushed close and scrummie Jack van Poortvliet went short side and gave impressive fullback Freddie Steward the chance to wrongfoot Wright and go over for the score. Farrell missed the conversion but England went into the break with a narrow 1 point advantage at 11-10.

Australia’s second half was a bit of a disaster. When a 130kg behemoth in the shape of Tupou opts to try fancy flick-out-the-back passing instead of bruising contact you must start to question tactics and gameplans. When your captain brainfarts and tackles the completely wrong player to hand eagle-eyed Farrell another successful penalty you need to look at discipline. And when your team continually creates amazing opportunities only to throw them away with costly mistakes you need to wonder about the conditioning and ball skills. Australia gifted England with 13 turnovers during the game!

The error-strewn display was truly summed up when Marcus Smith put the game beyond doubt with a try that should never have happened. A missed Australia lineout. A knock on from Lolesio into Smith’s eager paws. The scrappy number 9 then running straight through what looked like the entire Aussie pack and mid-field to outsprint all defenders and go over the line.

Folau Fainga’a pulled one back for Australia after a concerted effort by the forwards bashing through a staunch English defence on the try line to get the Wallabies to 21-17, but this only served to bring a little veneer of respectability to the score. Try as they might, and the certainly did try, the Aussies just could not broach that English wall, wave after wave of attack nullified and often turned over in the last 13 minutes to deny Australia a come from behind victory and ending with England going home with the Ella-Mobbs Trophy.

Now come the tough questions.

Why are Australia playing an immature brand of rugby? Why was Angus Bell benched after two fantastic Tests? Why did Rob Valetini not get a starting jersey when he was just beginning to come through with the goods? Why does such an enormous front row get scrummed to death? Why was a tantalising talent like Suliasi Vunivalu given his debut with only three minutes on the clock.

And how damn good is Marike Koroibiete actually! 

As much as games are won out on the park, what happens in the coaches box is just as important and it’s clear that mismanagement and poor selection are part of the problem for Australia.

The first test saw South Africa winning by the narrowest of margins as utility back Damian Willemse slotted a last minute penalty in front of a capacity Loftus Versfeld crowd, giving the Boks a 32-29 win.

The second game of the series saw 14 wholesale changes from Bok coach Jacques Nienaber, who awarded 6 new caps in a what most would consider to be a young, experimental Springbok ‘B’ team. This was clearly a long-term tactical decision, designed to test the depth of the Bok squad and possibly unearth some new talent as the Boks prepare for the Rugby Championship in less than a month’s time, and the World Cup next year. The short-term ramifications of this rejig however, resulted in a tied series and a 13-12 victory to Wales, who overcame some dodgy decision making to down the Boks “B’s”.

That meant all eyes were on Cape Town on Saturday for the series decider.

Nienaber chose what seems to be his strongest side in an attempt to recover the series and ensure that Wales didn’t make history again on tour, with their victory in Bloemfontein being the first victory on South African soil. Nienaber’s pack consisted of two titans of Bok rugby, Eben Etzebeth and Bongi Mbonambi, who celebrated their 100^th and 50^th caps respectively and led the boys in green and gold out onto the pitch for what turned out to be a great test match between a Bok side that’s hardly at their best, and a Wales side that was greedy for a win they thought they’d never be in contention for in the first place.

South Africa 30 – Wales 14

As the final whistle rang out across Greenpoint Stadium the Springboks successfully ended Wales’ dream of a Test series triumph by winning the decider 30-14 in front of a packed stadium in central Cape Town.

Springboks head coach, Jacques Nienaber, put the Bok’s best foot forward by recalling 8 test-hardened players to the team, all of whom had taken part in the World Cup-winning campaign. The experienced players seemed to make the difference as Handré Pollard, Bongi Mbonambi, and Siya Kolisi all crossed the whitewash to record impressive tries, while Pollard made up for a poor showing in Bloemfontein to successfully convert all three tries and add three penalties for a personal haul of 20 points.

The sole Tommy Reffell try – with an additional three penalties slotted by captain on the night Dan Biggar – belies the effort Wales put in but they were relegated to putting in the big hits in a fiery and resolute defensive display rather than show their flair on attack.

The North seems to be rising!

The result put a damper on the Northern Hemisphere’s celebrations as Ireland scored an historic series victory over New Zealand and England overcame stiff resistance to record a series win in Australia.

Wales would have gone into this series looking to get an indication of where they sit in preparation for next year’s rugby showcase, the World Cup in France. While their series display may leave more questions than answers, one aspect of the Dragons’ play they will put a huge tick beside is their defence. Not many teams can claim to be able to successfully nullify the Boks’ rolling maul, a huge weapon in the Green and Gold arsenal.

The late withdrawal of talismanic Taulupe Faletau certainly did not help the Welsh cause as replacement Josh Navidi, while being an able and competent No. 8, lacked the big impact of the British and Irish Lions player.

The number 8 berth seemed to be hit and miss for the Springboks as well with their most recent option, Jasper Wiese, also not making the desired impact and being replaced after just 35 minutes. Wiese is not the only player to be in the spotlight though. Pieter Steph du Toit, a World Rugby Player of the Year winner, also seems to be a little off the boil, while Siya Kolisi appears to be focusing on crashing into rucks rather than his usual excellence at chasing and turnovers. Which left all that breakdown work to Wiese. Who didn’t really step up to the task.

His replacement by Kwagga Smith was a bit of a masterstroke though. For all the SA focus on ‘big’ loosies to dominate the breakdowns, a habit that goes back to players like Heinrich Brussouw being overlooked because they are too ‘small’, it’s glorious to watch as the dedication, talent, energy, and above all, never-say-die attitude of players like Kwagga is let loose. Smith was in the thick of things straight away like a farm dog that’s been kept in the house for the whole weekend and suddenly given free rein on the field.

But the problems for the Welsh kept stacking up as Gareth Anscombe was forced to withdraw just before kick-off to be replaced by Rhys Patchell. Added to Josh Adams taking over from the injured Alex Cuthbert and the Welsh looked to be going into the game with a severely weakened team on the cards.

And they almost fell behind in the fourth minute.

A deft kick from centre Lukhanyo Am was gathered by wing Makazole Mapimpi who was over the Welsh line, only to be denied by the eagle eye of the TMO as his left foot was in touch. An early sign of the vision of Am and the handling, and scoring, skills of Mapimps.

South African fans were starting to buzz.

A penalty to Pollard and then Damian Willemse and Damian de Allende both almost getting their names on the scorecard, with only the ref’s wording denying de Allende a well-earned try. If the on-field decision went the other way, there was no conclusive evidence to say that it wasn’t a try, however, that’s not how it went down.

Relentless pressure and a quick snipe put Pollard over the whitewash, a score he happily converted.

Reffell claimed his first Test try following strong work by Adams and George North, a passage of play that was made tricky by the slippery turf of the Cape Town stadium, conditions that made handling a challenge for both teams at times.

Wales’ Achilles heel resurfaced once again though as they found themselves on the wrong side of the ref’s penalty decision – giving away 8 in the first 25 minutes of the game. With ill-discipline like this it was rather surprising that the Boks only held a 10-5 lead, although this was mainly due to some odd (and frustrating for the fans) on-field  decisions like kicking for touch when the points were on offer but kicking for posts when the game was pretty much over and tries could be had for some effort. There are times when this fan in particular wonders at the decisions made by coaches, leaders and players!

Wales woes were further compounded through the loss of flanker Dan Lydiate while iconic Springboks flier Cheslin Kolbe left the field with what appeared to be a serious injury.

A Biggar penalty brought some well-deserved relief to the Welsh but it was soon snuffed out when Bongi Mbonambi celebrated his 50^th appearance by dotting down from the back of a rolling maul – one of the few that the players in red didn’t manage to stop.

17-8 to the Springboks and half-time was blown.

Dewi Lake and Sam Wainwright joined entered the fray for Wales in the second half, which saw Biggar knock over another penalty to bring the scores a little closer at 17-11.

And the Boks again replied with an almost try to probably-the-best-outside-centre-in-the-world Lukhanyo Am. The excellent play was, unfortunately, called back for what was deemed a forward pass by scrumhalf Jaden Hendrikse.

At 48 minutes Biggar took his third penalty of the game, again overshadowed by the South Africans crashing through five minutes later to score via captain Kolisi to put them ten points ahead at 24-14.

Two more Pollard penalties closed out the game and South Africa were left celebrating a winning send-off to their Rugby Championship aspirations.

A classic, bruising South Africa-Wales encounter that ultimately saw the boys in Green and Gold take the series win but has left a lot of questions as they go into the Rugby Championship and their first game against a dangerous New Zealand.

A lot to look forward to!

The Soweto giants, Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, have been dominant forces in the country’s football ecosystem. The two teams command the bulk of the fans, sponsors and their pulling power were strong motivation for SuperSport to invest R1.6 billion in acquiring the PSL broadcasting rights in 2007, and paying over R2 billion five years later to retain them.

Former SuperSport CEO Imtiaz Patel, who headed the pay-TV’s acquisition of the TV rights, once joked that SuperSport United, owned by the broadcaster, were hurting their business in the early years of the deal when they won the Absa Premiership three seasons in a row. Patel joked that Matsatsantsa a Pitori’s success wasn’t good for business as supporters of the two most supported clubs in South Africa weren’t acquiring decoders enough. He claimed that when Orlando Pirates were winning the league, two in a row after SuperSport’s hat-trick, that increased the number of decoders being bought.

It would be interesting to hear what Patel, or whoever is now leading the pay-TV channel, thinks of Mamelodi Sundowns’ dominance in terms of their business.

Pretoria rises to prominence

The Brazilians have monopolised the league, winning it for five consecutive seasons. They have been so powerful that co-coach Manqoba Mngqithi said they are using the DStv Premiership to prepare for their CAF Champions League matches. The desire to conquer the continent again ranks high up in Sundowns’ list of objectives. It’s so high that when they won their fifth successive league title in May, some Sundowns supporters refused to celebrate the title, arguing that Mngqithi and fellow co-coach Rhulani Mokwena had failed after losing in the quarterfinals of the Champions League.

Their claim is that with the money they invest in assembling the team, winning the league is a foregone conclusion so the club now needs to be judged on winning the Champions League and going far in the FIFA Club World Cup.

While Soweto slumps

While Sundowns soar, the Soweto giants have been bumbling in mediocrity. Chiefs haven’t won a trophy since the 2014/15 season. The country’s cup kings have been in such a lean spell that they probably drink water in saucers now in Naturena with their trophy cabinet thin on cups.

Pirates brought a modicum of respect to their name when they won the MTN8 in 2020, but the league is where men are separated from the boys - and with the Bucs having last won the league in the 2011/12 season, they are certainly boys in the bigger scheme of things.

Sundowns’ success has had some positives for South African football. Their pulling power has changed the landscape of the game, players are no longer driven to just feature in the Soweto Derby, the country’s biggest sporting event, they want more. They want Champions League football. They want to play abroad (Sundowns have shipped more players to the best leagues in Europe recently than the two Soweto giants combined). They want to play in the Club World Cup. And they want to secure their futures in a precarious environment. Sundowns ticks the boxes in all those desires.

To what cost?

But their monopoly isn’t good for the game, as it leads to a situation where talent is saturated in one place which inadvertently results in some of the finest players in the country not getting regular game time.

That is not Sundowns’ problem.

That is Bafana Bafana and the country’s problems. As Sundowns keep winning trophies, and Patrice Motsepe’s billions bankroll them, they will keep getting the best players from the country, and now even the North African region with the signing of Moroccan left-footed centreback Abdelmounaim Boutouil who replaces Brazilian Ricardo Nascimento.

This is where it is important for Chiefs and Pirates to do well, so that talent is spread evenly and there is strong competition. Before the 2022/23 season has even kicked off, Sundowns are strong contenders to retain the league. Betting your house on it wouldn’t be such a bad call (but talk to your partner first) such is the dominance the Brazilians have had in the country and the widening gap between them and their nearest rivals.

Pirates have been busy in the transfer market. Despite their struggles, they have still been able to assemble competitive squads which means that the problem isn’t just solely on Sundowns’ chequebook doing all the work. The Brazilians’ technical team is obsessive with their planning and are relentless in their pursuit of winning. Pitso Mosimane took the Brazilians’ winning mentality to another level.

Pirates and Chiefs’ problems are their ambitions, or lack thereof. For them, winning the league is the Holy Grail. They are not thinking beyond the South African borders. Pirates’ run to reaching the final of the CAF Confederation Cup last season and Chiefs reaching the Champions League the previous season weren’t because of strategic planning, but rather sheer luck. For these two Soweto giants to challenge Sundowns, they have to aim higher. Winning the league mustn’t just be an objective, it must be the culmination of realising a bigger project. So far, there is no project with these two clubs, and they have been clinging to their support base and reach based on history.

Sundowns are changing that, attracting the young audience and dominating people’s attention. The Soweto giants will need to seriously relook their business model and strategy if they are to even be mentioned in the same breath as Sundowns, because judging by last season’s display where the Brazilians won all the trophies without so much as breaking a sweat, the Pretoria side’s challengers are yet to be formed. 

We all need the competition – and the support

Chiefs and Pirates go into this season with unproven technical teams at this level, while Sundowns have kept the core of the technical team that won them the first of their five successive league titles in the 2017-18 season. The fact that there are seven-year-olds roaming around in South Africa having never seen either of the Soweto giants win the league should be a cause for concern for the two most supported clubs, because apart from just pulling eyeballs for TV (which coincidentally have been dwindling) more competitive teams will be good for the country and the standard of the league instead of the one-horse race we currently have. 

Desiree Ellis’ second coming at Banyana Banyana has allowed her to achieve a number of things she couldn’t as a player. As an assistant coach to Dutch mentor Vera Pauw, Ellis became an Olympian when South Africa’s senior women’s national team qualified for the 2016 Olympics Games in Brazil. 

Three years after that, now as head coach, Ellis led the side at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in France in the country’s first appearance in the global showpiece. These two achievements were something Ellis could only dream about when she was a Banyana Banyana player after joining the team at the late age of 30 in 1993.

Ellis’ dreams of representing her country were put on hold by the brutality of apartheid which forced the Confederation of African Football (CAF), and world football governing body FIFA, to kick South Africa out of international football. This meant a generation of South African footballers couldn’t showcase their talent on the world stage.

So, when South Africa was readmitted to international football in 1992, Ellis wasn’t going to let this dream pass by, despite age not being on her side. She went for trials and became part of the country’s first senior women’s team which thumped Swaziland, now called eSwatini, 13-0. 

Nigeria, however, were an immovable object on Ellis’ bigger ambitions. The Super Falcons denied Banyana Banyana passage to the 1995 World Cup. This was the start of Nigeria’s dominance over South Africa. Ellis, first as a player then a dedicated spectator and eventually coach, could only watch helplessly as Nigeria time and time again stunned Banyana Banyana on the world stage.

Becoming African champions for the first time

But those days are long gone. Banyana are now regulars in major international tournaments and the Super Falcons no longer have an air of invincibility when they face Banyana.

Banyana showed that when they easily dispatched Nigeria in their opening match of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) underway in Morocco. The 2-1 win is actually flattering to Nigeria. Banyana should have scored more than just the two goals from Jermaine Seoposenwe and Hildah Magaia. Banyana clipped the wings of the Super Falcons and made the African powerhouse look ordinary. Thembi Kgatlana was menacing with her pace while Linda Motlhalo opened them up with ease.

This game was a repeat of Banyana’s start to the 2018 Wafcon campaign in Ghana. Banyana beat Nigeria in the opening Group B match. They then went all the way to the final where they met the same Super Falcons. By then they had qualified for their first World Cup, which was their main target. When they couldn’t wrap up that run with their first continental title it wasn’t a train smash – a place in the World Cup was secured. Nigeria reminded Banyana that they are the undisputed champions, winning their 11th Wafcon title in 13 editions of the tournament.

All that glitters can turn to gold

While Nigeria have been dominant, Banyana have been perennial bridesmaids. Their loss in the final was the fifth time they picked up silver from the competition – and three of those defeats have been at the hands of Nigeria. But this year, there is a strong belief in camp that Banyana will finally become African champions.

The team has a strong balance between youth and experience. Seoposenwe, Kgatlana, Refiloe Jane, Noko Matlou, Janine van Wyk, Andile Dlamini and Motlhalo have seen it all. They bring valuable experience. And, of the seven, only Dlamini hasn’t played professional football overseas. But even though Dlamini hasn’t played abroad, she is the only one in this group who has had the honour of being an African champion. Dlamini was part of the Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies that won the inaugural CAF Women’s Champions League.

This blend of experience gained in European leagues and grit from Africa’s club competition and numerous near misses in the Wafcon makes Banyana a formidable side.

The expanded Wafcon, with 12 teams for the first time, means that there are a number of potential banana peels for Banyana on the way to continental glory. One of those is Botswana, a growing force in Southern African football who denied Banyana a ticket to the Tokyo Olympics. That failure, however, strengthened Banyana and made sure they don’t take any opponent for granted.  

A stepping stone to the 2023 World Cup

With a place in the 2023 World Cup up for grabs for the finalists, qualifying for the tournament that will be staged in Australia and New Zealand is a minimum requirement for this Banyana side. The main aim is to return from Morocco with the trophy.

What will help them achieve that is the large number of players based overseas. In the starting XI that beat Nigeria, only three players – Dlamini, Noxolo Cesane (both Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies) and Sibulele Holweni (University of the Western Cape) – were players based in the country. But they are no slouches. Dlamini is an African champion. Cesane is a star of the future who has played international football at every level with the national team. Holweni, who featured in the Under-17 World Cup and the 2019 World Cup, has plenty of experience and pedigree.

Ellis is spoilt for choice when it comes to quality and the ability to handle tournament football pressure. This is the best chance Banyana have of winning the tournament since the 2012 Wafcon in Equatorial Guinea where they were carried by the euphoria of their first Olympics appearance. They lost to the hosts in a crushing blow.

This time around, that’s unlike to happen as the side has a strong chance of winning the tournament. If they do, Ellis would tick one last remaining box of things she couldn’t achieve as a player but is doing as a coach. She has already made the Cosafa region her fiefdom, winning the Cosafa Women’s Championship in four of the last five editions.

If they build on their start, those Cosafa titles will be joined by the Wafcon in the Safa House trophy cabinet. For their effort, players would get to share almost R10 million.

We’re betting our Banyana Banyana superstars will bring the Wafcon home – and head on to even greater things. They have the skills and the talent. They have the desire. And they have the Desiree Ellis to guide them.

England’s final day showing marked their lowest innings total on Australian shores since 1904. To put that in perspective, that was the same year the Russo-Japanese war erupted when negotiations over Korea and Manchuria broke down. That’s so long ago, that “Manchuria” doesn’t even really exist anymore. Nor do England’s hopes of returning home with any semblance of pride, unfortunately. They may not even have the chance to play the final two games of the series seeing as Australia is currently in the middle of a massive countrywide Covid outbreak.

Big day for Scotty Boland

Retaining the Ashes against Australia at the MCG is an almost impossible feat. It hasn’t happened since Andrew Strauss led his England team to victory in 2010-11, and that side was one of the more prolific Test sides of the modern era.

This year however, the smiling captain was Pat Cummins who, after the Tim Paine text scandal, was at the helm of an Australian test side for the first time in his career.

However, the spoils, smiles, and wickets belonged to one man in particular on this fine summer’s day in Melbourne. Scott Boland became only the second Indigenous Australian men’s Test cricketer in history when he donned the baggy green for the first time in day one. Figures of six for seven in four overs, with four of the wickets following Mitchell Starc’s early dismissal of Ben Stokes with a corker, made for what can only be described as an astonishing performance from a newcomer that few of us outside of Australia had ever heard of before his final day heroics.

Now, whether Boland tore the English up or not, Australia probably would’ve walked away with a convincing victory anyway, but it was a beautiful way to cap a wonderful all-round team performance.

Marcus Harris’ 76 was the highest individual score in a bowler-dominated test match. His knock was eight runs better than England’s second attempt at wielding the willow.

An unexpected moment in the sun for Boland punctuated England’s expected moment in the darkness, a darkness which looks set to continue should they carry on playing the sort of cricket we witnessed in the first 3 tests.

England’s world-class batting drought is nothing new

That’s not to say England hasn’t had world-class individual batsmen in a while.

Currently, captain Joe Root is arguably the best batter in the world. Previously we’ve witnessed some astonishing batsmen like Sir Alistair Cook, the mercurial Kevin Pietersen, big man Graham Gooch, Denis Compton, Marcus Trescothick and Michael Vaughan to name but a few, but what most of these titans of the game have in common is the lack of support they’d find from their teammates when it came to winning test matches with bat in hand.

Joe Root was on track to scoring more centuries in a calendar year than any other batsman in history heading into this Ashes series. Alas, his highest score on tour so far is an unimpressive 84. He fell 88 runs short of breaking the Test record for a calendar year at close of play on day 5 in Melbourne.

The trend? England doesn’t win Test matches when Root doesn’t score runs. The truth? Root is an island of quality in an ocean of mediocrity. 

There has also been a semblance of panic in the England camp since they lost the T20 World Cup to Australia a few months ago. They’ve been preparing for the Ashes scared. So scared in fact that they were obviously too focused on the Ashes when they were playing curtain raiser test series against New Zealand and India. Instead of building a solid, familiar line-up, director of cricket Ashley Giles and his coaching staff were experimenting with untested rookies and whacky combinations, both in batting and bowling. They narrowly avoided 5-0 whitewashes in those series and will be lucky to avoid one against Australia if the final two games of the Ashes are played.

The conditions in Melbourne didn’t help any batters to be fair. The pitch was lively and had a lot of attitude, especially when the sun started to bake it come day 4.

Cummins and Mitchell Starc are undoubtedly two seamers of the highest quality, even in conditions that favour batsmen, so when they started steaming in at the beginning of the test it was clear that England were in for yet another terrifyingly tough test.

Cummins led his team and the bowling line-up with aplomb, setting the tone with three vicious dismissals on the first morning of play. Mitchell Starc backed his captain with his wicked left-arm angle, swing, and blistering pace – not to mention his remarkable physical stamina.

Take these two terrible twins and pair them with Root, Stokes and Jos Buttler gifting their wickets away during a collapse to 185 all out and what chances did England stand in the first place? Come the second innings, when a deficit of 82 runs resulted from Anderson’s latest display of age-defying mastery, they were collectively too defeated to muster a comeback.

What’s next down under? 

Cricket Australia continues to wrestle with Covid-19 after match referee David Boon tested positive for the virus and Australia and England were placed on separate flights to Sydney due to the growing outbreak among the tourists.

Chris Silverwood, England’s head coach, is expected to miss the fourth Test at the SCG that starts on 5 January after a family member tested positive – the seventh case among support staff and families since Boxing Day.

The tourists are awaiting results from a fourth round of testing before their flight to Sydney on New Year’s Eve and a separate plane for Australia’s touring party has been organised at short notice.

Both teams are set to stay at the same hotel in Sydney but their journey has been split to reduce contact time.

Graham Thorpe, the assistant coach, is leading the England squad in an interim capacity provided he clears the latest PCR tests. Silverwood intends to serve 10 days of isolation to ensure his family’s wellbeing in Melbourne, but could travel to Sydney after seven and thus be in time for day two of the fourth Test. 

Whatever happens from here on out, England needs to pray a lot that the fourth test doesn’t go ahead to spare themselves any further embarrassment. 

City’s gap at the top grows ever bigger as they downed a mediocre Chelsea on the weekend. Chelsea just can’t seem to find the same rhythm that they started the season with. Clayton Ward-Prowse scored one of the goals of the season in a losing effort against Wolves, and the Premier League said goodbye to another manager as Rafa Benitez was relieved of his duties at Everton.

Let’s have a look at some of the stand out moments from gameweek 21.

Watford’s new blood is rearing to go 

Over the last fortnight Watford has gone on a serious recruitment drive, picking up a couple of lesser-known players including Maduka Okoye from Sparta Rotterdam, Hassane Kamara from Nice, Samir from Udinese, and Edo Kayembe from KAS Eupen in Belgium. Fans were a little unsettled by this near-anonymous shopping cart of imports, but their scepticism didn’t last long after Watford secured a hard-fought draw featuring three dazzling debutants.

The dynamic Kamara slotted in smartly at left-back, while at centre-back the Brazilian, Samir, buckled down for a good old-fashioned tussle with Newcastle’s Chris Wood, who he kept quiet the whole game.

The visitors’ best performer was Edo Kayembe, who patrolled the area in front of the back four with poise and authority and showed a nice eye for a defence-splitting pass.

João Pedro’s equaliser kept Newcastle in the bottom three, and Watford out of it. Will the same be said for Watford’s January arrivals come the season’s end?

Benitez bites the dust  

There were a few memorable details from Norwich’s victory over Everton at Carrow Road – not least the pitch invader who gave Rafael Benítez the finger. 

20-year-old Adam Idah is beginning to confirm some of his promise with a first Premier League goal for the Canaries, but watching Salomón Rondón alongside Dominic Calvert-Lewin for the Toffees, was pretty boring. Just two big dudes standing around for crosses that never came.

Norwich, however, played a much more fluid brand of football, albeit in a 4-4-2 formation.

By the time the match reached 55 minutes with the Canaries 2-0 up, Benítez abandoned his own formation experiment, going 4-2-3-1 in a desperate search for salvation. Despite Richarlison’s excellent overhead kick, however, it never arrived.

Benitez was relieved of his duties as Everton manager the day after their loss to Norwich. Another gaffer bites the dust and we can’t say we’re surprised about this one – Everton sit in 16th position on the table having won only 2 of their last 8. 

Coutinho’s comeback 

The glamorous debutant who struck a late equaliser understandably took all the headlines at Villa Park, but there’s a fair argument that Philippe Coutinho was only his side’s third most impressive midfielder on Saturday.

Emi Buendía, whose place looks most obviously threatened by Coutinho’s arrival, put on a remarkably creative display and showed enough flashes of link-up play with Coutinho to suggest that the two playmakers probably don’t need to compete for one position.

That being said, Villa’s star performer was Jacob Ramsey, who scored one and set up the other in a riveting central midfield performance. Ramsey has already started more games since Steven Gerrard took charge in November than he did over the whole of last season, and the early signs are that the new boss’s judgment is spot on.

After losing the beloved Jack Grealish last summer, have Villa found a new local hero? If so, then he’s already got the perfect mentor and adding Coutinho to the mix certainly won’t hurt.

Ward-Prowse can’t win on his own 


James Ward-Prowse struck yet another preposterous free-kick from 30 yards out that may be a contender for goal of the season, however, his Beckham-esque display was more a mere footnote in a frustrating 3-1 defeat at Wolves.

Last week the Brentford head coach, Thomas Frank, suggested Ward-Prowse could be the best free-kick taker on the planet and only David Beckham can better Ward-Prowse’s tally of 12 free-kick goals in the Premier League.

His latest strike was surely his best yet, not that he basked in it for too long: the second the ball cannoned into the net, Ward-Prowse headed back towards the Southampton half, ready for the restart with six minutes left to play.

He’s some talent, but he can’t win on his own. 

Raphinha raises the roof 

Leeds’ 3-1 victory over West Ham in London proved yet again that Raphinha is one of the best in the Premier League. Even though Jack Harrison scored a hat-trick, it was the Brazilian’s passing and panache that cut West Ham’s defence to ribbons.

Leeds had a fourth goal ruled out when an offside Rodrigo failed to get out of the way of Klich’s shot, the ball having been laid on a plate by Raphinha after he had left Issa Diop with broken ankles.

We’re expecting a bidding war in the summer  for a player who’s class is matched with a work ethic equal to any of Bielsa’s squad. 

Liverpool succeed sans Africans 

January has been long marked out as a danger-month for Liverpool because of the loss of two of the team’s much-lauded front three to the Africa Cup of Nations.

Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mané have averaged 52 goals between them in their four full seasons together at Anfield. But it is also true that this campaign has probably been Mané’s most underwhelming in a red shirt, and a return of one goal in his last 10 outings means that his absence may not warrant the gloomy outlook many have adopted.

Sunday’s win featured goals from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Takumi Minamino, while Mané himself has already found the net on international duty. 

Salah and Mane’s African teams have progressed to the next stage of the competition and are likely to go further. Could this be the chance for some players who’ve sat on the bench to rise up and earn more starting time? 

Pulisic not worth the pounds 

Expectations were high when Chelsea shook hands on the £58m deal that brought the much sought-after Christian Pulisic to the club.

Three years and 95 Chelsea appearances later, Pulisic is yet to live up to that description and has rarely given the impression that he might ever do so. At Manchester City he was AWOL, seeing little of the ball and doing not much with it when he did.

City are undoubtedly the toughest opponents in the league and are looking pretty unstoppable but big money demands to be repaid on occasions such as this. Pulisic has the talent and temperament to deliver in such fixtures – his elegant goal against Liverpool this month was proof of that – but too often he seems content to exist on the periphery of matches rather than take them by the scruff of their neck.

At 23 time is on his side, although the Chelsea hierarchy are not exactly known for their patience.

Thomas Tuchel was a madman pitch side on the weekend the moment anything looked slightly off. Chelsea looked uninspired and Man City managed the game with aplomb, the way champions are expected to. 

Whilst most of the world will be nursing a massive hangover, chairpersons, managers and club owners alike will be making their first moves in acquiring some fresh talent for their squads. As usual there’s been plenty of speculation and even more fake news about who might be going where, but we’ve made a list of some of our predictions based on commentary from pundits, managers and transfer experts from around the globe.

Our most reputable source is Italian football journalist and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. Romano has worked for Sky Sport Italy since the age of 19 and has amassed a large following on social media, having over six million followers on Twitter, and usually what Fabrizio says isn’t far from what ultimately happens. He was the first to break the news about Messi leaving Barcelona for PSG and called Jack Grealish’s departure from Villa to City.

We’ve done some digging of our own and measure up against Fabrizio’s findings and this is what we’ve made of it.

Will Mbappé stay or go?

Mbappé may have personally ruled out a move in January but there remains a slim chance that the French forward could join Real Madrid this month after their failed attempts to sign him in the summer.

Mbappé is entering the final six months of his contract with Paris Saint-Germain and can therefore sign a pre-contract agreement with the Spanish giants, although talks are said to be on hold until after the two clubs meet in the second leg of their last-16 Champions League on 9 March.

Whether Madrid will attempt to force the issue before then remains to be seen, but Mbappé would be a welcome signing wherever he goes.

Raphinha too hot for Elland Road? 

The Leeds United forward has been heavily linked with Bayern Munich and the German champions could decide to make their move should they allow Kingsley Coman to join Barcelona, who are licking their wounds and trying to rebuild their squad as best they can. Any offers would be strongly resisted, however, by Leeds, who are wary of losing their key creative player while they are battling against relegation.

Liverpool have also been linked with the player signed from the French side Rennes in October 2020, whose contract expires in 2024. The Brazilian could cost around £60m and would be a huge signing for any club that wants him. Leeds would struggle to hold onto Raphinha should some of the bigger clubs linked with him actually follow through on their intent.

A player of his calibre shouldn’t be fighting to stay in the top flight and it would be highly surprising if he were to turn down a move to Munich or Anfield. If Leeds negotiates well enough they could pick up a pretty penny for Raphinha and potentially add two or three good names to their squad in an attempt to salvage their season.

Vlahovic could be the next big thing 

21-year-old Dusan Vlahovic has been turning heads around Europe all season having scored 16 goals in Serie A for Fiorentina already and is well on course to beat the 23 he managed last season.

Vlahovic’s contract ends in 2023 and he has already rejected an offer to become the highest-paid player in the club’s history, with some of the Premier League’s biggest sides reportedly monitoring the situation. While it could take an offer north of £70m to tempt Fiorentina into doing business in January, they may decide to cash in if the right deal presents itself.

Rumour has it Chelsea could be on Vlahovic’s tail after Romelu Lukaku shocked the footballing world on Thursday in an interview with Sky, telling reporters that he misses Italy and isn’t happy at Stamford Bridge. No matter what form he’s in, nobody wants a player that doesn’t want to be there.

Martial’s time at United has to be over

United manager Ralf Rangnick has made no secret of Martial’s desire to leave Old Trafford six years after he became the most expensive teenager in history, but his destination remains unclear.

A loan bid from Sevilla that would have involved the Spanish club paying half of Martial’s £150,000 a week wages was rejected, with United not prepared to finance any loan move.

Barcelona and Juventus have also been credited with interest in the 26-year-old, who has slipped down the pecking order following the return of Cristiano Ronaldo and has played only 200 minutes in the Premier League this season.

Martial’s decline began when Mourinho was at the helm at Old Trafford but pundits believe there’s still more to be seen from a player who was once pegged as a future great. Let’s see what happens.

Zakaria destined for bigger things? 

Swiss international Denis Zakaria has already decided not to sign a new contract with Borussia Mönchengladbach. His decision to cut ties with his club has put several big clubs on high alert, with West Ham and Juventus among those to have been linked in recent days.

A defensive midfielder who is also capable of filling in at centre-back, Zakaria moved to Germany in 2017 from Young Boys and has also merited attention from Manchester United and Liverpool. He’d be a massive signing for the likes of United who have suffered without a world class central defensive midfielder for almost 6 seasons. Zakaria will definitely go somewhere this January and we can’t wait to see where.

Arsenal would be silly to let Maitland-Niles go. 

In August, Maitland-Niles took to Twitter to voice his frustration after being blocked by his club to join Everton on a season-long loan. Despite being praised by manager Mikel Arteta after a convincing win over Watford, the 24-year-old has not featured since in the Premier League. The England international has made only two starts in the Premier League and is expected to join Roma, linking up with the former Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham and, of course, José Mourinho, in what could be a permanent deal for around £12m.

Roma will gain a young, dynamic and versatile winger/wing back whilst Arsenal might lose a player with immense potential in a position where they probably need the most reinforcement.

Nate Phillips to the Hammers rescue 

When Liverpool had lost Van Dijk, Matip and Gomes to injury, young Nathaniel Phillips was thrust into first team football far earlier than he, or anybody else could have anticipated. He was hardly world-class, but the young centre back certainly improved every game and started to make a name for himself at the back of Liverpool’s line-up. Alas, Jürgen Klopp has yet to feature in the Premier League this season having filled in admirably during the club’s injury-ravaged title defence.

Now it could be time for a new chapter after Phillips asked to move on in January should they receive a suitable offer, with the 24-year-old recovering from a fractured cheekbone that kept him out of the festive fixtures.

West Ham – in the midst of their own defensive crisis – are among those to have been linked.

Trippier’s homecoming 

Kieran Trippier has thrived under Diego Simeone since joining Atlético from Tottenham in 2019 but looks likely to return to the Premier League as Newcastle’s first major signing since the Saudi takeover.

Talks are said to be progressing well and the 31-year-old would bring undoubted experience and quality to a side who are struggling to survive under their new manager, Eddie Howe, with Trippier likely to earn a significant pay rise for swapping the top of La Liga for the bottom of the Premier League.

This could be a really interesting move for all involved and certainly a massive win for sinking Newcastle. 

Rumour has it… 

Harry Maguire may not have experienced much love last season but he’s certainly felt it over the past couple of days. Having tied the knot in a lavish wedding ceremony with long-time partner Fern in a French chateau this weekend, he has jetted off on his honeymoon amid a swirl of rumours that Barcelona want a piece of him.

Yes, according to some chats blowing over from Spain to England, the Catalan club want the big centre-back as part of any deal for Frenkie de Jong – but Manchester United love their error-prone cult-villain so much they have told Barça manager Xavi to keep his hands off their man. All this means that Barça’s midfield’s maestro De Jong will cost United the full price of £69m, with the club still in the driving seat to sign him. Reports that Phil Jones is next on Xavi’s wishlist are much harder to believe.

Thomas Tuchel really needs to fill the huge void in the centre of his Chelsea defence after the departures of Antonio Rüdiger and Andreas Christensen to Real Madrid and Barcelona respectively. He hopes to do so by sending Timo Werner and £38m to Juventus in exchange for Matthijs de Ligt. They may even try to throw in Christian Pulisic, too. The Dutchman has a £103m release clause in his contract and it is thought the Serie A club would prefer a cash-only transfer. It’s the kind of pricey deal Chelsea technical director Petr Cech would probably advise against, but he’s leaving Stamford Bridge so new owner Todd Boehly will have the final say. The American needs to make some moves fast before the market dries up and Chelsea finds themselves defenderless.

West Ham are all over this summer’s transfer window and look to make some big money moves after qualifying for European football after a great season. Not content with signing Nayef Aguerd in defence, they still hope to add speedy Villarreal winger Arnaut Danjuma and proper No 9 Armando Broja from Chelsea for around £30m apiece. They have also made a contract offer to free agent and top, top celebrator of goals, Jesse Lingard, who had a happy time on loan at the London Stadium last year. And David Moyes will spend around £10m on goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, who they borrowed off PSG last season.
Jürgen Klopp is happy to wait a season to bolster Liverpool’s midfield ranks but when he does he will use his contacts at Borussia Dortmund to thrash out a deal for Jude Bellingham. The club believe the Germans will be more keen to chat about a transfer next summer than they are right now.

Bayern Munich have told Barcelona that they will have to get £52m together for Robert Lewandowski, which seems a fair old chunk of cash for a 33-year-old striker, but we’d back him to score at least 1,5 million goals in La Liga next season so maybe it is good value after all. Okay maybe not that many, but Lewa definitely still has a lot of goals left in him.

Patrick Vieira knows what Crystal Palace need to improve further next season, a player just like him, which is why he’s keen to cut a deal with Lens for box-to-box Mali midfielder Cheick Doucouré, who will cost them somewhere between £15m to £20m and finally Nottingham Forest are hoping to lure Liverpool right-back Neco Williams to the club with a £15m bid. Centre-back Sven Botman is on his way to Newcastle, where he will sign on the dotted line to complete a £35m move from Lille. And Middlesbrough full-back Djed Spence has asked to leave the club, with Tottenham favourites to sign the England Under-21 international.

Chelsea edge closet to Raphinha 

Chelsea are close to clinching a £55m deal with Leeds to buy Raphinha after moving in front of Arsenal and Barcelona in the race to sign the Brazil international. The left winger, who has also been a target for Tottenham, is poised to become the second key player to leave Leeds this summer, after Kalvin Phillips, who is joining Manchester City.

Chelsea have opened talks over City’s Raheem Sterling and also want Raphinha as they rebuild their attack. Arsenal, who have agreed a deal to buy Gabriel Jesus from City, have also made attempts to sign Raphinha. However they face the prospect of losing out to Chelsea, who are due to open discussions over personal terms with the 25-year-old. Raphinha’s preference had been to move to Barça, but the La Liga club’s financial crisis has prevented them from matching Leeds’s valuation. That has allowed Chelsea to move in and agree a fee with Leeds, though there could be a twist should Arsenal decide to raise their initial offer and go to £55m as well.

Todd Boehly, Chelsea’s co-owner, is ready to back Thomas Tuchel’s desire to bring in two attacking players. Tuchel has considered moves for Barça’s Ousmane Dembélé and Everton’s Richarlison, whose main interest has come from Tottenham, but the head coach has focused his immediate attention on Raphinha.

Sterling, who has held talks with Tuchel about life at Stamford Bridge, is expected to cost at least £50m. City are expected to receive Chelsea’s opening offer for the England forward this week.

Chelsea need to improve their quality in the final third and have agreed to loan Romelu Lukaku to Internazionale. Tuchel would like to build a more versatile attack and Raphinha, who can play in a number of roles across the front line, could be some smart business.

Tuchel is still monitoring Dembélé, who could leave Barcelona on a free. The France winger has not agreed to extend his contract and wants to decide on his future soon. However, his wage demands could be too high for Chelsea, who are yet to make an approach for Richarlison.

Watch this space. We’ll have more for you in the coming days.

The transfer rumour mill is going off the charts right now. Every 5 minutes, a new star is linked with a new club and it’s hard to keep up but we’re trying to stay as on top of things as humanly possible. We’ve caught wind of a few new hot topics including some confirmed signings hot off the press.

Rumour has it… 

Harry Maguire may not have experienced much love last season but he’s certainly felt it over the past couple of days. Having tied the knot in a lavish wedding ceremony with long-time partner Fern in a French chateau this weekend, he has jetted off on his honeymoon amid a swirl of rumours that Barcelona want a piece of him.

Yes, according to some chats blowing over from Spain to England, the Catalan club want the big centre-back as part of any deal for Frenkie de Jong – but Manchester United love their error-prone cult-villain so much they have told Barça manager Xavi to keep his hands off their man. All this means that Barça’s midfield’s maestro De Jong will cost United the full price of £69m, with the club still in the driving seat to sign him. Reports that Phil Jones is next on Xavi’s wishlist are much harder to believe.

Thomas Tuchel really needs to fill the huge void in the centre of his Chelsea defence after the departures of Antonio Rüdiger and Andreas Christensen to Real Madrid and Barcelona respectively. He hopes to do so by sending Timo Werner and £38m to Juventus in exchange for Matthijs de Ligt. They may even try to throw in Christian Pulisic, too. The Dutchman has a £103m release clause in his contract and it is thought the Serie A club would prefer a cash-only transfer. It’s the kind of pricey deal Chelsea technical director Petr Cech would probably advise against, but he’s leaving Stamford Bridge so new owner Todd Boehly will have the final say. The American needs to make some moves fast before the market dries up and Chelsea finds themselves defenderless.

West Ham are all over this summer’s transfer window and look to make some big money moves after qualifying for European football after a great season. Not content with signing Nayef Aguerd in defence, they still hope to add speedy Villarreal winger Arnaut Danjuma and proper No 9 Armando Broja from Chelsea for around £30m apiece. They have also made a contract offer to free agent and top, top celebrator of goals, Jesse Lingard, who had a happy time on loan at the London Stadium last year. And David Moyes will spend around £10m on goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, who they borrowed off PSG last season.
Jürgen Klopp is happy to wait a season to bolster Liverpool’s midfield ranks but when he does he will use his contacts at Borussia Dortmund to thrash out a deal for Jude Bellingham. The club believe the Germans will be more keen to chat about a transfer next summer than they are right now.

Bayern Munich have told Barcelona that they will have to get £52m together for Robert Lewandowski, which seems a fair old chunk of cash for a 33-year-old striker, but we’d back him to score at least 1,5 million goals in La Liga next season so maybe it is good value after all. Okay maybe not that many, but Lewa definitely still has a lot of goals left in him.

Patrick Vieira knows what Crystal Palace need to improve further next season, a player just like him, which is why he’s keen to cut a deal with Lens for box-to-box Mali midfielder Cheick Doucouré, who will cost them somewhere between £15m to £20m and finally Nottingham Forest are hoping to lure Liverpool right-back Neco Williams to the club with a £15m bid. Centre-back Sven Botman is on his way to Newcastle, where he will sign on the dotted line to complete a £35m move from Lille. And Middlesbrough full-back Djed Spence has asked to leave the club, with Tottenham favourites to sign the England Under-21 international.

Chelsea edge closet to Raphinha 

Chelsea are close to clinching a £55m deal with Leeds to buy Raphinha after moving in front of Arsenal and Barcelona in the race to sign the Brazil international. The left winger, who has also been a target for Tottenham, is poised to become the second key player to leave Leeds this summer, after Kalvin Phillips, who is joining Manchester City.

Chelsea have opened talks over City’s Raheem Sterling and also want Raphinha as they rebuild their attack. Arsenal, who have agreed a deal to buy Gabriel Jesus from City, have also made attempts to sign Raphinha. However they face the prospect of losing out to Chelsea, who are due to open discussions over personal terms with the 25-year-old. Raphinha’s preference had been to move to Barça, but the La Liga club’s financial crisis has prevented them from matching Leeds’s valuation. That has allowed Chelsea to move in and agree a fee with Leeds, though there could be a twist should Arsenal decide to raise their initial offer and go to £55m as well.

Todd Boehly, Chelsea’s co-owner, is ready to back Thomas Tuchel’s desire to bring in two attacking players. Tuchel has considered moves for Barça’s Ousmane Dembélé and Everton’s Richarlison, whose main interest has come from Tottenham, but the head coach has focused his immediate attention on Raphinha.

Sterling, who has held talks with Tuchel about life at Stamford Bridge, is expected to cost at least £50m. City are expected to receive Chelsea’s opening offer for the England forward this week.

Chelsea need to improve their quality in the final third and have agreed to loan Romelu Lukaku to Internazionale. Tuchel would like to build a more versatile attack and Raphinha, who can play in a number of roles across the front line, could be some smart business.

Tuchel is still monitoring Dembélé, who could leave Barcelona on a free. The France winger has not agreed to extend his contract and wants to decide on his future soon. However, his wage demands could be too high for Chelsea, who are yet to make an approach for Richarlison.

Watch this space. We’ll have more for you in the coming days.

But fans aren’t complaining too much. We’ve been treated to some red hot festive season football with or without all of the challenges managers and their squads are facing.

City are sitting quite pretty at the top of the table, 8 points clear of Chelsea who’ve edged Liverpool after their shock defeat to an out of form Leicester City. Liverpool has a game in hand, and knowing Jurgen Klopp, his charges will come back firing.

Many pundits believe that City are almost impossible to stop at this point, even though we’ve just edged past the halfway mark of the Premier League season. Guardiola’s team is one of the few teams that haven’t been hit by Covid, and their squad depth has them better positioned to weather the manic fixture list storm better than any other team in the league. They look virtually unbeatable.

But it’s still the Premier League and there are undoubtedly a myriad of surprises awaiting us. For example, who would’ve pegged Arsenal to be just 4 points behind Chelsea at this stage in the season after a terrible start? Not us. PLUS, we’re only a few days away from the January transfer window which will undoubtedly shake things up a bit.

Chelsea need a left back replacement after Ben Chillwell had to undergo knee surgery. Striker Romelu Lukaku also just came out with the news that he isn’t too happy at Chelsea which has put Tuchel in a pretty tough position. Will they be on the hunt for a new number 9 as well? Newcastle has become the world’s richest club since the last transfer window and will be looking to bolster their club in January to avoid relegation. Rumour has it Guardiola is on the hunt for a world-class striker to lead a side that is already unstoppable without one.

It’s still all to play for after this week’s fixtures and we have a lot to talk about so let’s get into it.

Scottish Pirlo shines for United

Look, we’re being a little sarcastic with the title of “Scottish Pirlo” – Scott McTominay has an unbelievably long way to go before anybody speaks about him in the same breath as the Italian maestro, but he was really impressive in United’s 3-1 over Burnley yesterday.

McTominay scored Thursday’s opener against Burnley and impressed throughout. United manager Rangnick grilled his players after their mediocre performance against Newcastle last week said McTominay who added: “Body language is one thing and the manager has come in and said he wants to cut that out, so that is final. We have taken it on board,” said the midfielder.

A further strike from Cristiano Ronaldo plus Ben Mee’s own goal were answered only by Aaron Lennon’s strike, all goals coming before half time. This was Rangnick’s fifth game in charge and he praised his side’s attack and their bounce back ability after their poor showing on the weekend.

Still a topsy turvy team to say the least, but they’re starting to look a lot more cohesive going forward.

Welbeck wins a point for the Seagulls 

As Danny Welbeck’s beautiful header sailed beyond Édo Mendy, it was difficult not to feel that we were witnessing the end of Chelsea’s title challenge. The gap to Manchester City stands at a massive eight points and Thomas Tuchel looked a defeated, yet unsurprised man when Welbeck equalised for Brighton, who would have been the victims of a gross injustice had they left Stamford Bridge with nothing to show for a splendid performance, particularly in the second half.

Unable to build on Lukaku’s first-half header, Chelsea can’t really complain after trudging to their third draw in their past four league games. Tuchel tried to foster a siege mentality afterwards, raging at being forced to play on through a Covid crisis, but the truth is that the Blues did not do enough.

The numbers favoured Brighton, who had more shots and more possession, and the only disappointment for Graham Potter was that his skilful visitors left it so late before equalising. Brighton smashed Chelsea in the second half. Bissouma made easy meat of two of the world’s best – Jorginho and Mateo Kovacic in central midfield – and Chelsea looked sluggish and unenthusiastic throughout.

What does Tuchel have to do to galvanise a team that started the season with such intensity and swagger? Can he get them back to their best and can City be slowed? Our answer for now is … no.

City poised to make it 4 out of 5 

We’re betting on City to make it four Premier League titles out of five come the end of the season.

After Liverpool wobbled at Leicester on Tuesday and Chelsea were depth‑charged by Danny Welbeck on Wednesday, Manchester City enter 2022 with a fourth title in five years firmly within their grasp.

Victory at Brentford (albeit by the slimmest of margins) opened the gap to eight on Chelsea and nine on Liverpool. Their chasers face each other at the weekend, with Liverpool being the likely winners should Chelsea play the way they did against Brighton.

City could not close out 2021 with a display of pyrotechnics, because Brentford were damn tough. Phil Foden’s early goal, coming from Kevin De Bruyne’s assist, gave them what they came for, a 10th successive Premier League win and their run of form doesn’t look likely to change any time soon.

Where has this Leicester been? 

Brendan Rodger’s Leicester side has had a tough time of it this season, and we were expecting so much of them after a blistering 20/21.

Liverpool’s defeat against the Foxes is only their second in the league since March, which means they might be 12 points behind Pep Guardiola’s team by the time they play again. Leicester were a side short of players and time to prepare, fresh from a spanking against City and without a specialist centre-back on the pitch. Somehow, they produced an enormous collective effort.

A team without a point against sides in the top six emerged with three. A side who had let in six goals two days earlier and whose only Premier League clean sheets were against Wolves and Newcastle became the first defence since Real Madrid in April to stop Liverpool from scoring.

Hats off to the Foxes!

Bowen batters Watford 

Jarrod Bowen capped a phenomenal individual display against Watford by setting up Nikola Vlasic for his first goal in claret and blue in added time in a 4-1 drubbing on Wednesday evening.

David Moyes has turned West Ham into a team that just does not know how to stop running. This group is far fitter than previous generations and there was a defiance to the way they responded after falling behind to Emmanuel Dennis’s early goal, the quality of their football too much for Watford to handle.

Bowen, an electric presence on the right, was their star man and has impressed all season long. The right-winger sparked West Ham’s fight back by creating Tomas Soucek’s equaliser midway through the first half.

Could West Ham still have hopes of playing in Europe? We think so.