Unsung hero of the Fifa Club World Cup celebrated

AMAPIANO pioneers DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small, better known as the Scorpion Kings, have reflected on the inspiration behind their chart-topping tribute “Lorch” and the footballers current brilliance.

- SAMEER NAIK [e-mail]

When asked about the reasoning behind the song “Lorch” in 2019, Maphorisa revealed, “When we made Lorch, it was during a time when Thembinkosi was dominating South African football,” said Maphorisa. “He was the player that everyone was talking about - whether you were a football fan or not, you knew about Lorch.

“His performance in the Soweto Derby where he scored against Kaizer Chiefs really stood out. But beyond just one game, it was the flair, the confidence, and the swagger he carried on the pitch.”

Kabza added: “Lorch has always had that thing. It’s not just his skills - it’s the way he is, how he carries himself, the way he represents the youth, the hustle. He became an icon of excellence and ambition for young South Africans. Just like in music, when someone shines that bright, we must celebrate it. That’s why we did the song.”