Sekhukhune United have reinforced their defence ahead of the 2026/27 season with the signings of former Stellenbosch FC defender Athenkosi Mcaba and ex-Asante Kotoko captain Ndongani Samba Gilbani, popularly known as Samba O’Neil.
Mcaba joins Babina Noko as a free agent after parting ways with Stellenbosch FC at the end of his contract. The 24-year-old arrived at Stellenbosch in 2021 and quickly progressed through the club’s ranks, helping the reserve side win the 2021/22 DStv Diski Challenge title before breaking into the senior team. He went on to make 72 appearances across all competitions for the Cape Winelands outfit.
During his five-year spell with Stellies, Mcaba was part of the squad that lifted the Carling Knockout Cup in 2023, reached back-to-back MTN8 finals and competed in the CAF Confederation Cup.
He also made history by becoming the first Stellenbosch player to earn a senior Bafana Bafana call-up when he was selected for international friendlies against Guinea and France in 2022.
SAMBA O’NEIL & ATHENKOSI MCABA PART OF CEDRIC KAZE’S PROJECT
His arrival forms part of Sekhukhune’s rebuilding project under newly appointed head coach Cedric Kaze. The Limpopo-based club have also secured the services of former Asante Kotoko captain Samba O’Neil on a two-year contract.
The experienced centre-back arrives from Ghana following an impressive 2025/26 campaign in which he established himself as one of Kotoko’s standout performers. Despite playing primarily in defence, O’Neil contributed six goals in 34 appearances across all competitions while leading the Porcupine Warriors as captain.
Although born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the defender represents Niger at the international level. His move to Sekhukhune marks the first chapter of his career in South African football as he seeks a new challenge in one of the continent’s most competitive leagues.
Meanwhile, Babina Noko have also completed the signing of former Upington City midfielder Givemore Khupe as they continue reshaping their squad ahead of the new campaign.
The club recently parted ways with midfielder Lebogang Phiri, and defender Shaun Mogaila. Thabang Monare, Bradley Grobler, and Lesiba Nku have already left, while veteran midfielder Linda Mntambo has officially retired from professional football.
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