FC Ravens head coach Sibusiso Mapompo has shared his thoughts on the influence of the former Bafana Bafana international MacBeth Sibaya within the club’s technical team.
The Eastern Cape champions were among the nine provincial winners competing for promotion in the 2025/26 SAFA ABC Motsepe League National Playoffs, currently underway in Mthatha.
The home side has endured a rollercoaster start to the tournament. After suffering a disappointing 3-1 defeat to Western Cape’s Sea Point Swifts [Hope FC] in their opening Group B encounter on Tuesday, they showed character to bounce back.
On Wednesday, the Ravens secured a vital 2-1 victory over Free State’s Mangaung Unite with the aim of keeping their promotion dreams alive.
But the Eastern Cape outfit learned their fate on Thursday, 4 June, as their hopes of progressing to the semi-finals were cut short. Ravens heavily depended on the outcome of the final Group B clash between Mangaung and Sea Point Swifts.
Unfortunately, Sea Point Swifts were the only team from Group B to progress to the semis following their 1-1 draw with Mangaung United. They finished top of the group with four points after two matches.
‘HE’S TOP COACH’: SIBUSISO MAPOMPO ON MACBETH SIBAYA
Speaking with FARPost on the sidelines of the playoffs, Mapompo opened up about the value of having a seasoned veteran like Sibaya—who enjoyed a distinguished career in Russia and represented South Africa at two FIFA World Cups—assisting the technical setup.
“It’s a huge experience. He is a top coach,” Mapompo told FARPost. “He has taught me a lot of things. You can see that he has played overseas and had the opportunity to be coached by top coaches.”
Mapompo highlighted that Sibaya’s approach is rooted in precision and the fundamentals of the game. He believes this has been a breath of fresh air for the amateur side.
“He’s someone who goes into detail when he does things. So, he teaches you about football. But the simplest things are the best with him. Having him in the amateur league, these boys get excited,” he added.
SIBUSISO MAPOMPO ON MACBETH SIBAYA’S LESSONS IN DEDICATION
Beyond tactics, Sibaya’s presence has served as a motivational tool for the Ravens’ squad. This was as they navigated the high-pressure environment of the national playoffs.
“He teaches our boys that they must do things the right way. You know, football rewards you when you are dedicated to it, and you do the right things,” Mapompo concluded.
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