Former PSL Star Explains Challenge South African Players Face in the US MLS
- Olwethu Makhanya has given a detailed explanation on the challenge South African players face while playing in the Major League Soccer in the US
- The former Stellenbosch FC defender left the Premier Soccer League two years ago for a move to Philadelphia
- The South African young defender is not the only Mzansi player playing in the MLS, there are two other flying the country's flay in the United States of America
Former Premier Soccer League star, Olwethu Makhanya has narrated the challenge South African players face in the United States of America while plauing in the Major League Soccer [MLS].
The 20-year-old left the Betway Premiership top side Stellenbosch FC two years ago for a move to Philadelphia after having an amazing season with the Stellies.
The South African youngster started playing for the American side reserve side before graduation into the first team this campaign.
Source: Getty Images
He made a strong start, playing in all of their first four matches of the campaign. However, a red card in a 3-1 defeat to Nashville resulted in a suspension, causing him to miss their next game against St. Louis City.
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Makhanya explains challenge SA players face in MLS
In an interview with FARPost, Makhanya explained what's really happening to South African players in the North American league.
Based on his observations, the former Stellenbosch star believes that South African talent is on par with that of the MLS.
Source: Getty Images
However, he points out that South African players often face a much higher work rate in the MLS, which he describes as faster and more tactical compared to the Betway Premiership.
"I wouldn't say the difference lies in talent," Makhanya explained in an interview with FARPost.
"South Africans definitely have the talent, but the real challenge we face is the work rate. It’s on a different level and much higher here."
"The intensity of the league, the pace of play, and everything that comes with it—that’s where the challenge lies. I feel the game here is much faster and more tactical compared to back home. Everything is more detailed, and the players here put in a lot more effort."
Along with Makhanya, three other South African players are currently plying their football trade in the MLS.
Midfielder Katlego Ntsabeleng plays for Dallas, having joined the team in 2022. Striker Bongokuhle Hlongwane plays for Minnesota United, also since 2022.
Njabulo Blom should have been on the list but was sent on a season-long loan to his former club Kaizer Chiefs in the Premier Soccer League.
The South African star is yet to hit the ground running with the Glamour Boys and the deal might be made permanent.
Bafana Bafana hopeful joins Molde
Briefly News also reported that South African defender Samukelo Kabini has joined Molde FK in the Norwegian league after sealing record R15 million exit from Premier Soccer League side TS Galaxy.
The former Galaxy defender has also participated in his first training with his new club.
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Source: Briefly News
