Doctor Khumalo and Themba Zwane Graphic.GOAL.

Khumalo vs Zwane: Fans protest comparison between Bafana Bafana great and Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder

Themba Zwane enjoyed a sensational outing for Bafana Bafana as he scored twice in the 4-0 victory against Sierra Leone at the FNB Stadium on Saturday.

His performance came as he made a return to the Bafana set-up after he was previously snubbed by coach Hugo Broos. His two goals, coupled with more strikes from Mihlali Mayambela and Aubrey Modiba, gave the Cosafa nation a huge victory before their next friendly against Botswana.

Mshishi, as the Mamelodi Sundowns star is famously known, has been consequently compared with South Africa’s great - Doctor ’16 V’ Khumalo – who helped deliver the 1996 Africa Cup of Nations.

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Khumalo’s legendary status within the South African football circle is further elevated by the fact he was in the team that played – and scored – in the first ever Fifa-sanctioned match at King’s Park stadium in 1992 against Cameroon. 

His longevity with the national side – from 1992 to 2001 – earns him immense respect.

The comparison with Zwane, a multiple title winner at Masandawana, however, has generated a heated online exchange with some stating the debate in the first place is an insult against the South African great and the Kaizer Chiefs legend.