Botswana international Tumisang Orebonye is basking in USM Alger’s CAF Confederations cup success and has revealed what makes it more special.
USM Alger made history after winning their first-ever continental title. They beat Tanzania’s Young Africans on the away goals rule in an enthralling two-legged 2022/23 CAF Confederation Cup final.
Altough they suffered a 1-0 at home, the 2-2 aggregate score, courtesy of their 2-1 first-leg victory secured them the coveted trophy.
WHAT MAKES TUMISANG OREBONYE’S CONFED CUP SPECIAL
As the made history, Tumisang Orebonye also became the first Botswana player to win a CAF title.
But what made the achievement more sweet is the heartwarming message he received from the Algerian President, Abdelmadjid Tebboune.
“Today I managed to shake hands with the president of Algeria and he told me that I’m one of the best players in the team,” said Orebonye.
“Guys he told me that I’m a fighter. He was watching our final game.”
Tumisang Orebonye contributed one goal and two assists in the 12 CAF Confederations cup matches he played.
The 27-year-old who plays as a centre-forward for USM Alger is on cloud nine following the achievement.
“I’m so happy that I’m actually the first Motswana to win this CAF title and also being part of the team that made history in Algeria.
“Being the first team to win the title here. I don’t have words to describe what I feel now but I’m living the moment and happy that I achieved this,” he told FARPost.
HOW HE HAS REMAINED AFLOAT IN ALGERIA
Tumisang Orebonye is one of the few players from Southern Africa that have managed to stay afloat in North Africa.
Orebonye is in his third year in North Africa having been signed by Morocco’s Olympique Khouribga from Township Rollers in November 2020.
He the crossed floors to USM Alger in January this year. The USM Alger star attributes his longevity in Algerian league to self belief and discipline.
“I have managed to stay here because I changed my life style. That includes changing the people I hang out with. From being an amatuer player to being a professional player.
“I changed how I behaved inside and outside the field, I changed alot of things.Mostly by being self disciplined and believing in myself.
“Most of the young players in Southern Africa, don’t believe that they can play here [North Africa].
“They lack self belief, when you believe in yourself, anything is possible.You can even be high than where I am by winning the CAF Champions league. They can even win the Confederations cup.
“It’s more of self belief and discipline and more of being at the right place at the right time.
“Most players want to change their play when they come here, to do what they are not to impress someone.
“Personally, being here, I have played my normal game. I have always followed the instructions. Whatever the coach says, I do it and even extra work,” he added.
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