Former Bafana midfielder compares Themba Zwane to Zinedine Zidane

Former Bafana Bafana midfielder Linda Buthelezi believes there are many similarities between France legend Zinedine Zidane and Mamelodi Sundowns star Themba Zwane.

Zwane, a key figure for both Bafana and Sundowns, recently reached a significant milestone. He earned his 50th cap for the national team in their 5-0 victory over Congo Brazzaville in Gqeberha, securing a crucial win in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.

Widely regarded as one of South Africa’s top players in recent years, Zwane has been instrumental under the guidance of Bafana coach Hugo Broos. His impact on the team was evident even when he was forced to leave the field due to injury during the 1-1 draw against Congo on Tuesday evening.

Buthelezi, who played for Bafana Bafana from 1994 to 1997, believes that Zwane and Zidane share similar qualities, such as their technical ability, intelligence, and discipline.

The former Sundowns, Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs midfielder – Buthelezi, also expressed his admiration for Zwane as a beloved figure in South African football.

Zidane is a legendary player who retired and subsequently coached Real Madrid and is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time.

WHY LINDA BUTHELEZI FEELS THERE ARE SIMILARITIES BETWEEN THEMBA ZWANE AND ZINEDINE ZIDANE

“Themba Zwane is a typical South African who can be utilised in any situation. You guys always talk about France legend Zinedine Zinedine. Zinedine is not far from Themba Zwane,” Buthelezi told FARPost.

“They have similarities; they turn here, they are clever, they are excellent. Themba Zwane is a darling to me and South African football, and he is a disciplinarian.

BAFANA BAFANA TEAM DOCTOR ISSUES UPDATE ON THEMBA ZWANE’S INJURY

Meanwhile, Bafana Bafana team doctor, Dr Tshepo Molobi, has confirmed that Zwane will be ready to travel with the rest of his teammates back to South Africa after scans were done on him.

Zwane was a forced substitute five minutes before the halftime break against Congo. He was replaced by Orlando Pirates midfielder Patrick Maswanganyi at Stade Alphonse Massamba-Debat de Brazzaville.

“Our Chief Medical Officer at SAFA, Dr Thulani Ngwenya, has been in constant communication with Themba’s club, Mamelodi Sundowns. He has kept their medical team appraised every step of the way. Upon arrival back home in South Africa, all the necessary processes will be made available for Themba,” said Dr Molobi.

RELATED STORY: Hugo Broos issues update on Themba Zwane’s injury