PINETOWN Boys’ High School rising star Khayalethu Mzimela was selected for the South African U17 Men’s National Team (Amajimbos).
Mzimela was part of the squad that played international friendly games against Lesotho from August 16 and 18. The national team is currently in a period of intense preparation for the upcoming 2024 U17 Council of Southern Africa Football Association’s (COSAFA) championships in December.
The Grade Ten learner earned his first international cap for South Africa on Friday. South Africa won the first game against Lesotho four goals to nil. The second game concluded in a victory for SA U17s who won by three goals to one.
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The school said this selection marks a significant milestone for both Mzimela and Pinetown Boys’ High School.
“Mzimela’s talent has been nurtured, not only within the school team but also through the British Football Academy’s programme, a testament to the successful collaboration between the academy and the school.
The synergy between these two entities has provided Mzimela with a well-rounded training environment, propelling him to the national stage,” said British Football Academy head coach Siyabonga Mnganga.
The academy set up by three businessmen, John Read and Peter Coyle, who are based in London, and Ian Kilbride, who is based in Cape Town. Its aim is to create a pathway to the English Premier League for talented young South Africans.
A collaboration was started with Pinetown Boys’ High School where 15 new football scholars started at the school in January.
Coach Mnganga expressed his delight at this monumental achievement. “We are incredibly proud of Khayalethu’s selection to the SA U17 national squad.”
Considering that the British Football Academy has only been operational in South Africa for seven months, Mnganga said this is a remarkable milestone for both the academy and the school.
“The significant investments made by our investors and management are now bearing fruit, and we couldn’t be happier,” he said.
Mnganga highlighted the collaborative efforts between the academy and the school, emphasising the positive impact on young talent development.
“This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. It’s a huge step forward and a clear indication that our approach is yielding positive results. Khayalethu’s selection is a reward for his diligence and respectful demeanour. We are immensely happy for him,” concluded Mnganga.
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