Sipho Mbule’s turnaround: Master Chef starting to cook in midfield
Redemption arc: South Africa’s Sipho Mbule rides the challenge of Wilfred Ndidi during their World Cup qualifier against Nigeria in Bloemfontein on Tuesday night. Photo: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix
Image: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix
The move to Orlando Pirates has revived Sipho Mbule’s career, and we are finally starting to see the talent that once made him one of South Africa’s most highly rated midfielders.
His struggles at Mamelodi Sundowns and Sekhukhune United are well documented, but since arriving at Pirates he has reminded fans why he was tipped for greatness.
Now, Mbule is beginning to justify his nickname, “Master Chef,” with the kind of performances that showcase his vision, composure, and ability to dictate play.
Over the last week, Mbule earned a recall to the national team, and was trusted with being the midfield orchestrator in the absence of Themba Zwane. He was brilliant in Bafana’s 3-0 win against Lesotho last week, and shone once again as they drew 1-1 against Nigeria on Tuesday.
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His ability to carry the ball and create chances makes him one of the most pleasing footballers to watch, and those were the qualities Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos wanted when he added him to the side.
Mbule didn’t let the Belgian down as he produced two assured performances that will get him called up again in the future.
Now the challenge for Mbule is to maintain these standards consistently. At Pirates, his role will only grow as the club fights for silverware on multiple fronts, and he has an opportunity to cement himself as one of the PSL’s most influential midfielders. If he can keep his focus off the field and deliver on it, there is every chance that he can finally fulfil the potential that once made him one of the most talked-about youngsters in South African football.
For Bafana, the timing couldn’t be better. With a crucial run of World Cup qualifiers coming up, Broos will need players who can handle the pressure and dictate play in midfield. Mbule has shown over the past two matches that he has both the temperament and the ability to be that player.
It has taken longer than many expected, but the signs now suggest that Sipho Mbule has turned a corner. If his recent performances are anything to go by, the “Master Chef” may finally be ready to serve up his best football for both club and country.
IOL Sport