Orlando Pirates midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula is eyeing a bigger role at the club after his early struggles to find his footing due to injuries.
The 34-year-old remains determined to prove his worth and fulfill a lifelong dream. In his first season at the Buccaneers, after joining the club in January 2023 from AmaZulu FC, he made 10 appearances.
Recalling his turbulent start, Makhaula details two injuries – one during pre-season in Spain and another upon his return.
However, the former Usuthu captain is fit now and has started the last three games for Bucs. He believes it’s only the beginning of good things.
“I haven’t come the way I really want to, it’s just getting game time for now,” said Makhaula. “I’m enjoying. ‘Cash’ is not yet back, but he’s still coming. Unfortunately, I was disturbed by injuries at the start of my Pirates journey. I’m coming.”
Makhaula admits to frustration over his limited playing time. He highlights the chairman’s encouraging words to “keep working hard” and credits work done during the recent AFCON break for his increased playing opportunities.
He acknowledges the fierce competition for starting positions. “Cash is not yet back, our competition is too stiff… once you lose focus someone takes it. I haven’t taken it yet, but I’m going there.”
MAKHAULA’S LIFELONG DREAM
Wearing the Orlando Pirates badge holds immense significance for Makhaula. He reveals his late mother and other family members were die-hard fans of the club. While he expresses a wish for this opportunity to have come sooner, he remains grateful and motivated.
“For me, I wish this opportunity of coming here would have come on my 26th or 27th [age] but unfortunately that’s not how we plan things.
“God decided iya lapha umdala [go there when you’re older] then bazokuthi umdala [they will say he is old]. Ngifikile, ngihappy ukuthi ngilana [I arrived and I’m happy to be here]. I so wish my mom; my grannies were here to see that I’ve reached the dream I’ve always wanted.”
Makhaula emphasises his experience, accustomed to playing “25-30 games” a season at AmaZulu.
RELATED STORY: Riveiro explains Makhaula’s recent starts for Orlando Pirates