Thibang ‘Cafu’ Phete opens up about his move to IF Vestri

South African versatile defender Thibang Phete has opened up on his decision to join Iceland’s IF Vestri as he ended a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

The 30-year-old completed his move to the Iceland top-flight a week ago, having spent almost ten months without playing.

He secured the exciting new deal as a free agent. Phete last played for Portuguese outfit GD Chaves during the 2023/24 season.

He left the club when his one-year contract with the Primeira Liga outfit lapsed. Since then, Cafu as Phete is fondly known, had been without a club.

Crucially, the lanky defender, who can also play as a midfielder is angling to revive himself at the Ísafjörður-based club. Before switching to Iceland, Phete played for a number Portugal sides namely Grupo Tourizense, Vitoria SC and Belenenses.

WHAT THIBANG PHETE SAID

He also had a one-year stint at Al Bataeh Club in the United Arab Emirates elite league. In an interview with FARPost, Phete who was groomed by Farouk Khan at Stars of Africa Academy, said he is raring to go.

Phete said he wants to rise from the ashes like a phoenix and make up for lost time having been unattached.

“The move to Vestri was not an easy one but really important for me because I stayed almost 10 months without playing,” Phete told FARPost.

“And my previous two seasons were not the best as I had injuries. And I missed a lot of football in the two years. So coming here was important for me to get playing again and show people I’m over my injury.

“Most importantly I want to play and get some game time because the season will be ending soon. I decided to come here and make up for lost time. I am hoping to give back my experience and help the team finish in a better position,” addee Phete.

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