The midfielder finds himself in an Amakhosi side that has struggled to supply players to the South Africa national team, while teammates Inacio Miguel and Glody Lilepo have also lost their places in the Angola and DR Congo teams, respectively. However, the 22-year-old has remained in contention at international level under the watch of Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos.

The versatile midfielder has had a tough week in the wake of Amakhosi's elimination from the domestic annual competition. The Bafana Bafana international had some massive opportunities to put his name on the score sheet but failed to capitalise on them. However, his compatriot has stood firm in his defence, insisting it is common in football.

The Soweto giants set the ball rolling in their quest to defend the most prestigious knockout competition in South African football. They come up against the Cape Winelands side, who booted them out of the Carling Knockout in October 2025 and would want to avoid another upset at the hands of the same opponents when the two teams meet on Wednesday.

The 22-year-old midfielder clocked 100 official matches for the Soweto giants when they edged ZESCO United 1-0 in a CAF Confederation Cup tie at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Sunday. He came on as a second-half substitute to play the last 32 minutes, but could not score or provide an assist on his career special day. He reached the century milestone when his Orlando Pirates opposite number is now on 108 appearances for the Buccaneers with 20 goals and 26 assists.

With a slot in the quarter-finals looking possible, it means Amakhosi will deal with a more congested calendar going forward. The Glamour Boys are also firmly in the Premier Soccer League title race, meaning their focus is divided as the season hits a crucial stage. The Nedbank Cup campaign also awaits the Soweto giants later, and it is a competition they will not want to lose, but can they withstand the pressure that comes with congested fixtures?