Alexandra’s youngsters are so passionate about football and many of them name themselves after the world’s top players.
One of the world’s most popular players is Barcelona star and Argentine international, Lionel Messi, who has captivated audiences worldwide with his dribbling skills, ball wizardry and his knack for scoring exceptional goals.
It is not surprising therefore that Alexandra has two of the most talented stars going by the same nickname, Messi. Both boys are two of the township’s most skilful ball players who carry the hopes of their footballing schools on their shoulders.
Meet 12-year-old Joseph ‘Messi’ Maphuruma, a 14th Avenue boy who is a major part of the football success being enjoyed by his two-time Discovery Alex School League champions, Iphutheng Primary School.
Like the inspirational Messi, the diminutive Maphuruma has at times single-handedly demolished all his team’s opposition, and wears the number 10 jersey as his hero does. The Grade 7 pupil often dribbles past midfielders and defenders before drilling the ball past a hapless keeper.
The other ‘Messi’ is Tshepang Phala, a former Grade 7 pupil at Ikage Primary School who now attends Realogile High School. Phala is a star midfielder of the Malandela Mighty Heroes U13 team that came close to winning the Alexandra Northrand Local Football Association league last season. He was awarded the Players Player of the Season award.
Interestingly enough, both players adore Kaizer Chiefs and hope that one day they will don the colours of their favourite club.
