Ajax Cape Town were again on the losing side when they were defeated by Kaizer Chiefs in 2010 and again they were undone by a 20-year-old talent who would go on to have a major impact for club and country. Mandla Masango netted the first goal for the AmaKhosi on that occasion, announcing himself to the Chiefs fans and setting himself on the path to a fine career that now includes a successful spell in Denmark with top side Randers FC.
Chiefs’ second goal in that game was scored by a teenager, as Zimbabwean forward Knowledge Musona pounced to break Ajax hearts. Musona went on to become a regular scorer in the PSL and also bag two more goals as Chiefs defeated Orlando Pirates in the next season’s Telkom Knockout final.
Already in the 2015 tournament, after just one round of action, a number of players have stuck up their hand to announce themselves. South African Under-20 star Maphosa Modiba played his part in helping Mpumalanga Black Aces past Bloemfontein Celtic after extra-time and penalties in the Free State.
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His solidity in midfield as his side came under The Premier Soccer League’s Cup competitions have a history of being the launching pad for rising stars and the Telkom Knockout has been no exception.
A number of South Africa’s top talent have displayed their rich potential on the Knockout stage and gone on to glittering careers thanks to their cup exploits.
Thuso Phala is one such youngster, having shot to prominence as a fresh-faced 20-year-old for Platinum Stars in the 2006 Telkom Knockout competition.
His performances on the right wing helped Dikwena go all the way to the final, with a winning goal in a famous semifinal victory over Santos.
Stars would go on to defeat Ajax Cape Town in the decider.
Immense pressure showed maturity beyond his years.
Telkom’s Senior Sponsorship Specialist Braam Wessels shared his delight on how Telkom’s investment into football is reaping rewards for the participating players.
“We are delighted at how for the past years, Telkom has been the launching pad for some of the country’s most recognised footballers. We are looking forward to witnessing other youngsters using the Telkom Knockout to showcase their talent and make a name for themselves,” said Wessels.
2015 Telkom Knockout Last 8 Draw Results
Date: Saturday, 24 October 2015
Home Away Venue Time
Orlando Pirates/Maritzburg United vs University of Pretoria / Maritzburg United Orlando Stadium / Harry Gwala Stadium 15h00
M. Black Aces vs Kaizer Chiefs Mbombela Stadium 18h00
Supersport United vs L.Golden Arrows Peter Mokaba Stadium 20:15
Date: Sunday, 24 October 2015
Home Away Venue Time
Free State Stars vs Mamelodi Sundowns Goble Park 15h00
