The 19-year-old burst onto the big stage impressively and has underlined Masandawana’s depth at left-back. His presence and performances could pose a huge challenge to more established players, including Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos’ first-choice option and Divine Lunga. With Fawaaz Basadien and Asekho Tiwani also in the mix, competition for a regular place in that position is set to intensify at Chloorkop.

The forward is the latest South African talent to cross the borders and sign for a foreign club, ready for the challenges that come with the move. Having made an impressive mark in the Premier Soccer League, he now has an opportunity to test his ability in a different environment against a different kinds of opponent. For the star, it is a career progression, and for the PSL club, it was an opportunity to cash in on one of their prized assets.

The Glamour Boys have been blowing hot and cold in the South African top-flight, but they will be aiming to start the year on a high when they face Abafana Bes'thende on Tuesday. It will be a massive opportunity for the players to reward the supporters with a gift after an extended break owing to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The former Esperance coach has been under massive pressure owing to Masandawana's struggles, especially in the Premier Soccer League as well as the other domestic competitions. 'Jingles' has been heavily linked with a return to the Brazilians to help in shaping the squad, but the Portuguese tactician has rubbished the speculation.

Amakhosi rivals, particularly Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns, have taken advantage of the short transfer window. But the Glamour Boys have not yet brought on board anyone, and there is a likelihood the technical bench will work with the players already available. Given that they are challenging on both domestic and continental fronts, Chiefs' coaches can only hope each and every player will play their part as required in order to achieve their season's ambitions.

The Soweto giants have been enduring contrasting fortunes this season, with Amakhosi part of the chasing pack in the Premier Soccer League title race. They are trailing their traditional rivals, who are touted as one of the favourites to be crowned PSL champions. A defender with first-hand experience playing for both teams has explained the gap between the two clubs, pointing to key differences.

The 29-year-old started the season in a promising manner and was being touted as a deserving player to be selected for Bafana Bafana duty, but fizzled out and was being frozen out by Buccaneers coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. That sparked transfer rumours and the forward has now moved to the Cape Winelands where he will try to pick up form and end the season on a high.

Erling Haaland has already conquered most Champions League records, but Manchester City's trip to Bodo/Glimt on Tuesday offers him a chance to break new ground by becoming the first Norwegian player to score against a Norwegian team in the competition's history. Even though Bodo is a 24-hour drive from Haaland's hometown of Bryn and way up in the Arctic circle, this is still a homecoming for the nation's most famous athlete.