Carnell’s verdict on Olwethu Makhanya Philadelphia senior debut
South African coach Bradley Carnell has given his verdict on Olwethu Makhanya’s senior debut for MLS side Philadelphia Union.
Philadelphia Union started their era under the former Bafana Bafana defender, Carnell, with a resounding win over Orlando City SC. They won 4-2 on Sunday morning to begin their 2025 campaign on a high note.
Tai Baribo notched a brace, while Daniel Gazdag and Mikael Uhre scored a goal each. Marco Pašalić scored both goals for the losing side, Orlando City SC.
As Carnell made his first appearance in the Philadelphia Union dugout, Makhanya also made his senior debut for the team. The 20-year-old has been handed a new lease of life at the club since joining them from Stellenbosch FC in 2023.
He struggled to break into the senior set-up and was deployed to the reserve team, where he made 31 appearances last season. Crucially, he appears to be a firm part of Carnell’s plans.
WHAT CARNELL SAID AFTER MAKHANYA’S SENIOR DEBUT FOR PHILADELPHIA UNION
Addressing journalists after their emphatic win away from home, Carnell praised Makhanya for living up to expectations. Makhanya stepped up to play side-by-side with Jakob Glesnes as the centre-backs.
“…It was great seeing Olwethu Makhanya out there playing the way we wanted. It took him a while to get through in the game, but he eventually got it right, and I’m confident in him,” Carnell said.
According to the club, Makhanya completed 81% of his passes and made one major block. Hopes are high that Makhanya will last the distance in the senior team.
In addition, Carnell who was appointed head coach of Philadelphia Union two months ago, will hope to help the club become more competitive.
They now shift focus to their next assignment against FC Cincinnati on Sunday, 2 March. FC Cincinnati is currently home to former Kaizer Chiefs centre-back Teenage Hadebe.
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