Scoring on debut is always special, but scooping the Man of the Match award and securing a vital win for your country, is extraordinary.
This was the case for Orlando Pirates star midfielder Mpho Makola whose incredible strike in the 78th minute meant Bafana Bafana retained the Nelson Mandela Challenge trophy with a 1-0 win over Senegal at Orlando Stadium on Tuesday night.
The winger creating space for himself, before launching a powerful shot outside the box which gave Senegal goalkeeper Khadim Ndiaye no chance.
Not only did Makola help Shakes Mashaba’s team lift the trophy again, but this was also their first win over the Lions of Taranga.
“It was a great goal. I’m happy that my team managed to win, it was a good game after all,” said Makola.
“Every player wants to play for the national team and be a regular. But it is more about being consistent, that is something I want to do.”
As much as the goal was important for the midfielder, it was also critical for the team as well, after falling out 3-1 to a lowly ranked Mauritania in the Afcon qualifiers over the weekend.
“I’m excited, it was all about redeeming ourselves after the performance we showed over the weekend.
“It was more about Nelson Mandela, we did it for him tonight. I’m happy with my performance and my goal.”
With the national duty out of the way for now, Makola will be travelling to Egypt today with the Pirates team for their final CAF Confederations group stage match against Zamalek.
The Buccaneers and the White Knights are level on points in group B, with the Egyptians topping the standings with a better head to head record.
“They are top of the log. But we are going to approach the game the way we always do. I’m looking forward to the game, we want to top the group and hopefully get the first leg away when we go into the semi-final.” - The Star