A 16-year-old prodigy, Junior Phiri, has attracted interest from PSL clubs following two standout performances in the Pirates Cup, where he earned Man of the Match honours.
The Pirates Cup is an Under-21 soccer tournament hosted annually by the Buccaneers. This year’s edition was hosted over the Easter Holidays.
Last month, the teenager, a product of the Kagiso Sports School of Excellence [KSSE] in Kempton Park, represented Sekhukhune United in the annual tourney. He was one of the most impressive players. Phiri, who primarily plays as a defender, is very comfortable on the ball, strong in the air and commands his backline with maturity beyond his age.
The well-built teenager has an impressive physique and is KSSE’s Under-19 side captain. He joined the academy four years ago as a 12-year-old. Since then, he has consistently competed in age groups significantly older than his own.
Interestingly, Orlando Pirates signed another 17-year-old – Rethabile Ramontoeli – from the James Mothibi Sports Development Academy. Indications suggest that they will evaluate all players who were named man of the match at the 2025 Pirates Cup, which was won by Lerumo Lions. Lions secured the Men’s title, while Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies were victorious in the women’s edition.
JUNIOR PHIRI SET FOR ASSESSMENT AT PSL CLUBS
Besides Pirates, the Grade 11 St Athanasius Christian School learner could soon be assessed by two other PSL clubs.
“He’s certainly one of our brightest prospects. We have received numerous inquiries about him. And we’re considering this as we aim to foster his development. We believe he possesses the qualities to advance and become a top defender,” confirmed academy chairman, Kagiso Nkoana.
Meanwhile, the academy has partnered with the Vaal University of Technology. Under this arrangement, players who excel receive a bursary to study.
“We emphasise the importance of academics because football is a short career. We want our players to have multiple career options when they hang up their boots,” explained Nkoana. “We’re not just looking for players to reach their matriculation; we want every student to have the opportunity to attend university as well.”
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