Fresh from signing a professional contract with Kaizer Chiefs, Xolani Cossa has secured a loan deal with Botswana’s top-flight side Black Lions for the 2025/26 season. The left-footed centre back is tipped for a bright future.
Amakhosi have offered him a professional contract and will monitor him over the coming months as they seek to integrate him into the senior team.
It was believed that with the emergence of Aden McCarthy and the presence of Rushwin Dortley, who is expected to return from injury soon, and Bradley Cross, Cossa’s integration into the senior team would be delayed.
Black Lions, owned by Pretoria-based businessman Tendani Sebata, are coached by Owen Da Gama. The veteran South African coach is excited to work with the talented youngster. The club was eager to get a left centre-back to reinforce their squad. Lions purchased the status of VTM FC, the club Sifiso Myeni and Rooi Mahamutsa played for in Botswana.
However, under the veteran coach, they have had a slow start to the season. They lost to Sua Flamingoes in their opening game of the season, before being edged 1-0 by Jwaneng Galaxy and falling 2-1 to Township Rollers.
WHAT XOLANI COSSA BRINGS TO BLACK LIONS?
The arrival of 22-year-old Cossa is expected to give them balance in defence. In the opening three games, Da Gama has relied on Escobar Raditsebe and Martin Nfila in the heart of defence.
In Cossa, he is getting a young defender who has the knack for long-range passes. The Chiefs academy graduate also has exceptional ball-carrying abilities.
Da Gama confirmed to FARPost that Cossa was a player who fit their profile and would be one of his new signings.
The former Magesi FC coach said he was excited to work with the promising defender. He is aware of the young defender’s capabilities and believes a season-long stint across the border would be beneficial.
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