Former Kaizer Chiefs defender Tefu Mashamaite has lost his job as head coach of SAFA Limpopo ABC Motsepe League side Phalaborwa United, barely a month into the job.
Mashamaite was appointed as the head coach of the ambitious side in September. He was tasked with getting the side promoted to the Motsepe Foundation Championship.
However, his stint at the club didn’t last long, as the club’s management decided against continuing with the 41-year-old.
The decision comes after the club lost in the Nedbank Cup qualifiers against Nkowankowa Continental FC at the Nkowankowa Stadium on Saturday.
TEFU MASHAMAITE’S FIRST JOB AS HEAD COACH LASTS FOR A MONTH
Mashamaite and his side suffered a 4-3 loss via a penalty shootout. It was the first coaching job for the former Bafana Bafana player who recently quit as a player agent.
“Phalaborwa United Football Club has announced that it has parted ways with Head Coach Tefu Mashamaite following the team’s early exit from the 2025/26 Nedbank Cup,” the club said in a statement.
“The decision follows the club’s 4-3 loss on penalties to Nkowankowa Continental FC, after a tightly contested match ended in a draw during regulation time. The club’s management determined that a change in leadership was necessary as part of its review of the team’s performance and overall direction.”
“Phalaborwa United FC thanks Coach Mashamaite for his efforts and contribution during his time with the club and wishes him well in his future endeavours. Preparations are underway to appoint a new head coach ahead of the upcoming fixtures, with an announcement expected soon.”
The club has shown serious ambitions to compete, having signed several former PSL players. This includes Rhulani Manzini, who was with Magesi FC last season. Former Black Leopards midfielder Wiseman Maluleke is also part of the club.
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