At only seventeen years old, Siyabonga Mabena has become one of the brightest young names in South African football. His journey from a township academy to professional glory reflects both natural talent and strong mentorship. On Xoilac, football fans can follow how this teenage forward continues to shape the future of the sport in Africa.
From youth academy to national stage
Every football story begins with a dream, and Mabena’s started in the youth fields of Pretoria. His discipline and maturity quickly set him apart from players of the same age.
Mabena — Rising from the Youth Training Grounds of Pretoria
Training ground beginnings at Transnet School of Excellence
The Transnet School of Excellence has long been known as a breeding ground for South Africa’s top talents. It was here that Mabena learned the fundamentals of passing, dribbling, and tactical positioning.
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Coaches often noted his calmness on the ball, a trait rare for players under fifteen. Former trainers shared that he was usually the first to arrive at practice and the last to leave, showing focus that many compared to early stars like Steven Pienaar in his teenage years.
Signing for Mamelodi Sundowns at fifteen
By 2022, both Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates were eager to sign him. The young forward eventually chose His early performances with the under-19 team confirmed that he could handle the challenge.
Within months, he was training with senior players, studying the movements of seasoned forwards like Peter Shalulile. This exposure helped him develop speed, awareness, and sharper decision-making in front of goal.
Making his DStv Premiership debut
In March 2023, Mabena made his professional debut against Royal AM. The match was already decided at 5–1, but his short appearance was enough to turn heads. At just fifteen, he became the fifth youngest player in South African Premier Division history.
Coach Rhulani Mokwena praised his control and vision, saying that the youngster reminded him of the late Gift Leremi. Fans began to believe that another generation-defining player was emerging from the Sundowns system.
The journey of records and recognition
After his debut, Mabena quickly turned from a promising academy graduate into a national name. Every appearance added to his growing reputation, both domestically and internationally.
Mabena — A Promising Young Talent from South Africa
Youngest scorer in South African league history
On September 27, 2023, Mabena made history. Playing against Sekhukhune United, he scored his first professional goal at the age of sixteen years, seven months, and nine days.
The stadium erupted as teammates celebrated what many saw as the beginning of a historic career. Commentators emphasized not only his goal but also the confidence in his positioning. The goal symbolized his growth under pressure and his readiness for elite competition.
Dominating the COSAFA Under-17 Championship
Before his professional milestone, Mabena had already made headlines at the 2022 COSAFA Under-17 Championship. Representing South Africa, he scored five goals in the group match against Seychelles and added a hat trick in the semi-final against Malawi.
Although South Africa lost the final to Zambia, Mabena earned both the top scorer and the player of the tournament awards. His nine goals in five matches demonstrated his instinctive finishing ability and composure. Many analysts believe that this international exposure accelerated his confidence for the league.
The legacy comparison with Gift Leremi
Coach Mokwena’s comparison between Mabena and Gift Leremi drew national attention. Leremi was known for his agility and two-footed technique, qualities now seen in Mabena. The resemblance lies in the way he changes direction at speed and maintains balance while dribbling past defenders.
However, Mabena also brings his own modern touch. His awareness of space and quick passing reflect current European trends, showing how young African players are adapting to modern football styles.
Conclusion
Siyabonga Mabena’s journey is more than a story of talent; it is proof of discipline, structure, and vision. From the dusty pitches of his youth to scoring in the country’s top league, his rise shows what is possible when opportunity meets determination. As he grows with Mamelodi Sundowns and the national team, football followers on Xoilac will be watching closely for the next chapter in his remarkable journey.
