Makudubela names overlooked Yanga star as all-time best teammate
Mahlatse ‘Skudu’ Makudubela has named an often-overlooked star he encountered in Tanzania the best he’s ever shared the dressing room with.
While many recognise the brilliance of Stephane Aziz Ki, the School of Excellence graduate, Makudubela was particularly impressed by another player in the East African nation.
The former Marumo Gallants player spent a season at Young Africans, where he won the Tanzania Premier League title and the FA Cup. Despite limited playing time under coach Miguel Gamondi, Makudubela has consistently praised his experience with Timu ya Wananchi.
When asked about the best player he’s ever shared the field with, Mahlatse Makudubela surprisingly chose a former Yanga teammate, highlighting an exceptional talent that might have flown under the radar.
WHO’S THE YANGA PLAYER SKUDU MAKUDUBELA RATES AS THE BEST
The 34-year-old has played for Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, Platinum Stars, Chippa United and Highlands Park. “At Platinum Stars, it has to be Masibusane Zongo,” he told Junio Khanye.
When Khanye asked him who his best overall teammate throughout his career was, he named Pacome Zouzoua.
“In my entire career, I’m going to single out two. Two players I enjoyed playing with on the team were Masibusane Zongo. Two, Pacome Zouzoua. He’s currently playing for Young Africans, number 26. Ah, my man, ‘Zizou’. He knows my brother. You know me when you’re good at football, I’ll tell you. Pacome Zouzoua, Professor, he’s one of the best players I’ve ever played with in my career.”
Zouzoua joined Young Africans alongside Makudubela at the start of July 2023 from Ivory Coast giants Asec Mimosas. In the 2023/24 CAF Champions League, the Ivory Coast international scored three goals and provided one assist in six outings. Unfortunately, Zouzoua, capped four times for the 2023 AFCON winners, missed the two legs against Mamelodi Sundowns due to injury.
He went on to score seven goals in the Tanzania Premier League, helping Yanga win their 30th league title and the FA Cup.
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