Makudubela reflects on Yanga season

Mahlatse Makudubela of Young Africans SC challenged by Kofi Asmah of Medeama ©Loveness Bernard/BackpagePix

Sunday Jun 30, 2024. 13:00

South African winger Mahlatse Makudubela has reflected on his season with Tanzanian heavyweights Young Africans.

Makudubela, who has played for the likes of Platinum Stars, Golden Arrows, Orlando Pirates and the University of Pretoria in his home country, made a surprise move to Yanga in July 2023 from Marumo Gallants – becoming the first South African to play in the Tanzanian Premier League.

He enjoyed a fine debut campaign, helping Young Africans wins the league title as well as the Federation Cup.

With his contract at Young Africans set to expire at the end of June, Makudubela’s future remains uncertain, though potential transfers to either Rwandan champions APR FC or Young Africans’ domestic rivals, Azam FC, are reportedly on the table.

“The first target would be to add a CAF Champions League medal,” Makudubela is quoted by The Guardian. “I’m hoping for a great season ahead, whether in South Africa or Tanzania.”

Reflecting on his move to Dar Es Salaam just under a year ago, the winger explained: “It happened very quickly. I was about to sign with another South African team when Young Africans’ president, Mr. Engineer Hersi Said, called me.

“We played against them in the Confederation Cup, and I think that’s where they spotted me. They’d been following me, but our games gave them a closer look.”

He added, “It’s a big thing for my career to go abroad and play for such a team. Young Africans are a big club in Tanzania.

“Honestly, it came as a surprise in the first place, but I looked at my qualities, the efforts I’ve been putting in, and everything I’ve served South Africa with, so I think I deserved the opportunity.”