I can compare us to Brazil

Mzikayise Mashaba's journey from the streets of Tembisa to lifting the CAF Champions League and CAF Super Cup remains one of South African football's most remarkable modern stories. A versatile, intelligent footballer who thrived under high-pressure demands at Mamelodi Sundowns, Mashaba reflects on a career defined by continental triumphs, deep football intellect, and a new chapter in coaching and scouting. In this interview with Soccer Laduma's Masebe Qina, the former defender revisits the moments that shaped him, the dreams he chased, and the vision behind his new role as Head Senior Scout at Xen Elite Sports Group.

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Masebe Qina: Hola Muzi. You had a great career in the PSL, having won the CAF Champions League and CAF Super Cup, which is a rare achievement for any South African player. What stands out as the defining chapter of your playing career?

Mzikayise Mashaba: My defining moment or chapter of my career was when I won the CAF Champions League. When I won the Champions League and the Super Cup, that was the defining moment of my career because it's a lifetime achievement. You can cherish it because not many people can win it. In Tembisa, where I was born, bred and "buttered" - only three people have managed to achieve that. That's me, Jerry Sikhosana and Themba Zwane. Every player dreams of having a Champions League medal in their playing career. Yes, that was the defining moment. That is a big one. That is a top achievement.

MQ: Growing up, did you ever dream that your career would take you to that level?

MM: Yes, I always thought about it because I loved playing football at a very young age. I always admired Thabo Mooki, because I support Kaizer Chiefs. We grew up supporting Chiefs at home. I used to stay up at night watching Champions League games until very late. Watching Manchester United winning the 1999 Champions League when they came back from behind against Bayern Munich. I watched a lot of football when I was young and I was like, "If they can make it, why not? I will also make it."

MQ: Back in those days when you were growing up supporting Chiefs, how was it when you turned pro and had to play against them?

MM: It was nice because I grew up supporting them. But because I was working at Sundowns, I had to beat them at all times. Even though at home we grew up supporting them, when I was at work it was different. I could support them at home when nobody saw, but when I was playing against them, I had to beat them because we also wanted to win the league or any other silverware.