Mandla Qhogi, a former development coach who dedicated 18 years to Orlando Pirates’ youth structures, has identified a player who could prove a “hidden gem” for the new coach.
Qhogi, credited with unearthing several talents currently in the senior team, is convinced that an often-overlooked academy product could be a crucial asset next season if given the chance.
With the Buccaneers seeking a replacement for Jose Riveiro, who has moved to Egypt’s Al Ahly, Qhogi emphasises the potential of this particular talent.
Under Riveiro’s tenure, several youth academy players successfully transitioned to the senior team, most notably Relebohile Mofokeng, Mohau Nkota, and Mbekezeli Mbokazi. Other notable graduates include Siyabonga Ndlozi, Yanga Madiba, Simphiwe Selepe, and Cemran Dansin.
QHOGI BACKS RADIOPANE TO SHINE
Qhogi firmly believes that Boitumelo Radiopane will flourish with increased playing time. “Radiopane is one of the prospect players that I believe if he gets enough time, as much as they are giving him now – those 15-20 minutes – he will adapt to get his rhythm,’ Qhogi told FARPost. “Pirates will benefit more in the striking department from that player.”
When asked about the 23-year-old forward’s key attributes, Qhogi highlighted four distinct qualities. “It’s the physique he possesses. His ability to protect the ball. The running into spaces also. The scoring part is very important because he is a striker. He is a top striker.”
Radiopane, a Vaal-born forward, holds the impressive record for the highest number of goals in the DDC, having netted 25 goals in the 2021/22 season. Qhogi emphasised this achievement: “I still believe even now in the DDC, no one is up on his goal records of 25 goals that he scored in the 2021/22 season. He still holds that record.”
However, Radiopane’s transition to senior team football hasn’t been smooth, with his career frequently hampered by injuries.
His loan spell at Cape Town Spurs yielded just one goal in 15 appearances. In the recently concluded season, he scored only one goal in 24 outings, primarily coming on as a substitute.
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