Venda FC head coach Clinton Larsen has lifted the lid on the club’s recent recruitment drive, revealing the tactical thinking behind their new additions ahead of the 2026/27 Motsepe Foundation Championship season.
Having finished ninth last term—eight points above the relegation zone—Venda FC have retained Clinton Larsen for a second season as they eye a higher finish.
To bolster their chances in a competitive Motsepe Foundation Championship, the club has reinforced its ranks with 12 new arrivals, officially unveiling the squad additions at their Louis Trichardt headquarters on Wednesday.
The new players are Bongani Mpandle [goalkeeper], Pfunzo Ramunasi, Shaun Morgan, Cameron Carnell, Cohan-Josh Daniels, Bonginkosi Makume [all defenders]. The list includes Donald Makgetlwa, Goodman Chirwa, Steven Goovadia, Tumi Tshabalala all midfielders], Mashiku Muyeka [striker] and former Polokwane City FC striker Douglas Mapfumo.
CLINTON LARSEN HAPPY WITH THE NEW ADDITIONS AT MOTSEPE FOUNDATION CHAMPIONSHIP CLUB
”We were looking for consistency in performance. We were looking for technically very sound players, very technically astute players,” said Larsen.
“When I said technically I mean comfortability on the ball, players with a high level of technical experience of execution. We struggled in that department in certain positions last season and we believe that we have rectified that this season.
”I will give you a few examples. We have some great technicians of football in this club that we brought in. The likes of Donald Makgetlwa, you will see him this season. Goodman Chirwa, Douglas Mapfumo, a big striker.
“You look at Stevens Goovadia, like I said, South Africa will probably for the first time hear the name. A lot of people will be talking about him based on what we have seen in the pre-season. I know him from my time at Magesi FC when he was still at Polokwane City because we played them a few times in friendly games.
“So that would be the main reason, having more technically astute players that can play the type of football we are asking for.”
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