‘You only see that in players like Ronaldo & Messi’: Phete on PSL star
Iceland-based defender Thibang ‘Cafu’ Phete has revealed the PSL star who has been his greatest inspiration, likening his consistency to that of world-class stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
Though he never played in the Betway Premiership before moving to Europe, the 30-year-old has keenly followed action in the league.
Phete passed through Farouk Khan’s Stars of Africa Football Academy and is one of the few SA stars who graduated to Europe without playing in the Betway Premiership. He, however, played in the National First Division [NFD] for Milano United.
The Bafana Bafana international recently completed a move to Iceland outfit IF Vestri. He previously played for clubs such as Grupo Tourizense, Vitoria SC, and Belenenses in Portugal. He also spent a year in the United Arab Emirates at Al Bataeh Club.
WHICH PSL STAR HAS GREATLY INSPIRED ICELAND-BASED DEFENDER THIBANG PHETE?
In an interview with FARPost, Phete revealed his undying admiration for Bafana Bafana and Mamelodi Sundowns talisman Themba Zwane. Phete said Zwane’s consistency falls in the category of Real Madrid legend Cristiano Ronaldo and ex-Barcelona top star Lionel Messi.
“I would say Themba Zwane. Firstly, I mean his consistency throughout the years; you only see that in the highest-level players like Ronaldo and Messi. At his age [35], he inspires me to keep going every day. He is a true South African legend,” Phete told FARPost.
The talented centre-back, who can also play as a midfielder, has previously played for Bafana Bafana. He was given a chance during Hugo Broos’ early stages as head coach.
At the moment, Phete says his focus is on getting as much game time as possible, having endured a lengthy layoff.
“Look, Hugo Broos gave me an opportunity to represent my country, and I did so proudly. At the moment, the guys are at an unbelievable level, and every South African would love to be part of that squad,” added Phete.
“But honestly, for me, my first goal is to get back on the field, and everything shall follow. For me now, I just want to play, that’s my main objective.”
Phete is targeting a revival in Iceland’s top flight league. He joined IF Vestri after a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
He spent over ten months without playing and was last in action during the 2023/24 season, when he was on GD Chaves’ books. When his one-year contract lapsed, Phete remained unattached as he recovered from an injury.
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