Msimango says hard work on and off the pitch is finally paying off

DEFENDER Given Msimango has been working hard both on and off the pitch — he recently got married, is expecting his first child, and is playing some of his best football in a Kaizer Chiefs jersey.

- MIHLALI BALEKA

Msimango revealed that he had tied the knot when he shared that he had to cut his holiday short last year “with his wife” to report for Bafana Bafana duty. He was initially not in coach Hugo Broos’ squad for the World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Nigeria but was later called up to replace Grant Kekana. Since announcing his marriage to Bontle Makgalo, Msimango and his wife have also revealed on social media that they are expecting a baby. While Msimango is clearly thrilled to become a father, it’s his performances on the pitch that are currently turning heads.

At first, Msimango didn’t appear to be in coach Nasreddine Nabi’s plans when he joined the club last winter, with Nabi preferring Rushwin Dortley and Inacio Miguel at centre-back. However, following an injury to Dortley and the sale of Thatayaone Ditlhokwe, Msimango was given his opportunity — and he has seized it with both hands.