Ex-Ajax Cape Town star Mkhanyiseli Siwahla explained the influence of the late Senzo Meyiwa on Itumeleng Khune’s rise.
Siwahla played with the former Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs goalkeepers at the SA U-17, U-20, and U-23 national squads.
Khune rose to prominence after saving three penalties in the Telkom Knockout final against Mamelodi Sundowns on 1 December 2007.
The former Amakhosi shot-stopper is also renowned for stopping a penalty from David Villa during the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup group stage game between Bafana Bafana and Spain.
Due to his exceptional performances for Bafana and Chiefs, he was recognised as one of the top goalkeepers in SA, resulting in the nickname ‘Mzansi’s number one’.
Khune, now unattached, cut ties with the Soweto giants last year following a 25-year marriage with the Glamour Boys.
MKHANYISELI SIWAHLA ON SENZO MEYIWA’S INFLUENCE ON ITUMELENG KHUNE’S FOOTBALL CAREER
Siwahla characterised his time playing with Meyiwa and Khune as “unique,” driven by their brotherhood during their youth.
He continued by saying that Meyiwa’s personality and ability to inspire others were remarkable. He believes that Meyiwa brought out Khune’s best due to their positive rivalry in the national team.
“You know, it was unique to play alongside Senzo Meyiwa and Itumeleng Khune. At that time, our coach was Steve Komphela. We were more like brothers. The character, work rate—everything we did, we did it together,” Siwahla told FARPost.
“Senzo had his character. I think Senzo brought out the best in Itumeleng Khune. He is the one who I can say helped Khune become the best goalkeeper.
“I think without Senzo, Khune would not have been number one in South Africa. I believe Senzo did a lot for Khune to be at the top of his game at that time. They were competing, and it was more like a PlayStation game when you were watching them.”
Siwahla added: “There was something pushing or controlling them to do better because in every game that we played, you wouldn’t know who to start with. But at the end of the day, it didn’t matter who started the game because they were all at their A-game.
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