With Kaizer Chiefs loanee Xolani Cossa now enjoying his first stint in senior team football, revelations have emerged detailing how his move to the top-flight was delayed after a deal to join a club fell through.
The left-footed centre-back is relishing his stint with Black Lions in Botswana’s top-flight, having joined them at the start of the season on loan from Amakhosi.
Interestingly, Botswana national team coach Morena Ramoreboli has revealed how he came close to signing him during his time at Jwaneng Galaxy. Ramoreboli was speaking to SAFJA members when he disclosed that the deal collapsed just as everything was set to sign the talented player.
HOW DID XOLANI COSSA’S MOVE TO GALAXY COLLAPSE?
“I wanted him at Jwaneng Galaxy. And we had already finalised things. Unfortunately, when the move had to happen, I think there was a possibility of him being promoted to the senior team, and we had to withdraw. Unfortunately, he had to play another season in the DDC,” Ramoreboli explained.
With Aden McCarthy, Bradley Cross, and Rushwin Dortely ahead of Cossa in the pecking order, the 21-year-old needed to secure game time elsewhere. The Soweto giants have three seasoned central defenders – Inacio Miguel, Zitha Kwinika, and Given Msimango – all capable of filling in on the left side when needed.
Meanwhile, the talented defender has returned to training after a recent concussion scare. Cossa spent three days in the hospital and has since recovered.
Lions FC coach Owen da Gama praised Cossa, who has been the club’s standout player so far this season.
“Xolani is a true professional,” he told FARPost. “I’m proud to say that Chiefs, Pirates and Sundowns always produce quality professional players.”
The veteran coach stated that Cossa has already improved the Lions’ defensive line. “We are happy to have him here. He has added so much impetus to our defence.”
The Tendani Sebata-owned side is placed 10th on the table after three wins, three draws and six defeats.
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