Popular showboating sensation Xolani ‘Blackberry’ Nkala has revealed why securing a move to Kaizer Chiefs remains his ultimate footballing dream, despite growing up as a staunch Orlando Pirates supporter.
The 30-year-old attacker has long been a household name across South Africa’s vibrant township off-season tournaments, captivating crowds with his extravagant flair and trickery. However, translating his grassroots stardom into a sustained top-flight career has proven challenging.
Over the years, Nkala has earned stints in the professional setup with clubs such as Mbombela United, Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila [TTM], and JDR Stars, alongside a trial assessment with SuperSport United. Currently, the skilled trickster is on the books of SAFA Gauteng ABC Motsepe League outfit RRR Rams FC—a third-tier side owned and managed by former Pirates forward Rudzani Ramudzuli.
OVERCOMING THE “SHOWBOATER” STIGMA IN THE PSL
Despite his current standing in the lower ranks, Nkala firmly believes top-flight coaches and talent scouts misjudge his overall game. The dynamic forward reiterated that his footballing repertoire extends far beyond showboating, arguing that decision-makers in the Premier Soccer League [PSL] often overlook his tactical awareness and winning mindset due to an unfair narrative labelling him an “unserious” player.
Nkala remains convinced he possesses the requisite quality to impact games at the highest level, holding out hope that top-flight technical teams will look past the carnival flair and evaluate his true technical ability on the pitch.
WHY NATURENA IS THE ULTIMATE DESTINATION
When pressed on which PSL club would be his ideal destination if given a top-flight lifeline, Nkala bypassed his childhood team to outline why Amakhosi holds a special place in his heart—crediting his mother’s lifelong devotion to the Naturena-based giants.
“As I have mentioned, I had trials at SuperSport United, and I grew up supporting Orlando Pirates,” Nkala revealed in an exclusive interview with FARPost.
“But because my mom has been supporting me for a long time and Kaizer Chiefs is her team, I believe the team I want to play for is Kaizer Chiefs — because of my mom.
“The fan base of Kaizer Chiefs is one of the biggest in South Africa. Supporters always fill up the stadiums even during difficult times. So I think that is where I can be appreciated and survive as a player.”
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