My teammates are shocked’: Kaka Sifumba on Portugal stint
Cape Town City FC loanee Luphumlo Kaka Sifumba is making strides in his adaptation to Portugal football. The talented midfielder, who joined second-tier side FC Vizela in September, eagerly awaits his official debut in January.
While he’s yet to make an official appearance, Sifumba has been actively involved in friendly matches, showcasing his skills and potential. His recent performance against FC Porto was particularly noteworthy because of fellow Capetonian Benni McCarthy’s history with them. McCarthy won the UEFA Champions League with Jose Mourinho’s Porto in 2003.
“I’ve been playing friendly matches to prepare for the second half of the season,” Sifumba told FARPost. “I’ve scored and assisted in three matches, including one against FC Porto. I’m pleased with my performances, but I can’t wait to compete officially.”
The 19-year-old’s journey to Portugal marks an exciting chapter in his career. As he continues to develop his skills and gain experience in a competitive league, Sifumba’s future in European football looks promising.
LUPHUMLO SIFUMBA IMPRESSES IN PORTUGAL
“The players are shocked at first; they would ask where I come from because they were impressed with the qualities I possess. I still need to learn the language,” the 19-year-old midfielder added.
“I’ve always wanted to play in Europe, and coming here, my dream is becoming a reality. I can see it’s possible, and it’s going to happen. I’m just waiting for my turn to play; I’ll definitely do well.
“My mentality has always been to play in Europe. I always saw beyond South Africa; Europe was where I wanted to be.”
Affectionately known as ‘Kaka’ after the retired Brazilian star, the Cape Town-born midfielder burst onto the scene during the 2022/23 season. that particular season, he clinched the prestigious DStv Diski Challenge Player of the Season accolade.
Last season, Sifumba made 12 appearances in all competitions for The Citizens under Eric Tinkler’s tutelage. While his limited playing time might have been seen as a setback, he insists it fuelled his determination to succeed.
“At Cape Town City I didn’t always play, but that’s something that inspired me that I can go forward. Not playing at Cape Town City didn’t mean it was the end.
“There’s a time for everything. I had to wait patiently. I had to be positive while waiting. If I didn’t play on a weekend, on Monday, I’d be first at training.”
He credits his mentor, Steve Makhaluza, for shaping his journey. “He’s been like a second father to me, constantly encouraging and guiding me,” he said with gratitude.
WHAT THE EMERGENCE OF RELEBOHILE MOFOKENG MEANS FOR SIFUMBA
The sight of former DDC teammate Relebohile Mofokeng donning the Bafana Bafana jersey on Tuesday filled Sifumba with pride and motivation.
“To me, when I see Relebohile Mofokeng playing for Bafana Bafana, it says it’s possible, and it says that one day I’ll play in Bafana Bafana, and I will. One thing about me: everything in my life is always about time. If today I’m not included in the plans, I know tomorrow I will. It’s pure motivation; I know tomorrow I’ll be there.”
FC Vizela, a Portuguese football club based in Vizela, Braga District, was founded in 1939. The club plays its home games at the 6,100-capacity Estádio do Futebol Clube de Vizela.
The technically gifted Sifumba, known for his exceptional passing, assists, and ability to create space for teammates, is eager to make his mark on the European stage. He hopes that his time with FC Vizela will provide the perfect platform to showcase his talents and continue his upward trajectory.