Kabelo Dlamini: How Orlando Pirates Star Was Scouted by a Kaizer Chiefs Legend

• Kabelo Dlamini was the star as Orlando Pirates crushed Chippa United in the Nedbank Cup
• The in-form Buccaneers ran out 3-1 winners at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on May 4
• Dlamini credited a Kaizer Chiefs icon for scouting and setting him on the path to success

Orlando Pirates midfielder, Kabelo Dlamini, has explained the role played by Kaizer Chiefs icon, Jabu Mahlangu, in identifying his talent.

Dlamini showcased his prowess by netting a brace as the Buccaneers secured a 3-1 victory over Chippa United in the Nedbank Cup semi-final at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

Within just five minutes, he capitalized on a free-kick opportunity, leaving Chippa's goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, helpless.

Before halftime, he extended Pirates' lead with a well-timed finish from Patrick Maswanganyi's cross, setting the stage for a challenging comeback for Chippa.

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As reported by Goal, defender Tapelo Xoki sealed the victory with a precise volley from Maswanganyi's delivery, clinching their spot in the final.

Kabelo Dlamini's journey

Reflecting on his journey, the 27-year-old disclosed the unlikely encounter that altered his career trajectory.

Growing up in the same Daveyton neighbourhood as Mahlangu, Dlamini earned the moniker 'Shuffle' in homage to Mahlangu's playing style. He disclosed how Mahlangu, recognizing his potential during a chance encounter at a local park, facilitated his entry into Farouk Khan’s Stars of Africa academy.

“You see, at a park, in the morning during the week, players who don’t have clubs and those trying to break into the professional ranks, we trained at a park. Jabu Pule was passing by, but he decided to stop, put on his boots and trained with us. That’s when he saw the kind of player I am. He asked for my number and a week after that he told me he spoke to Farouk [Khan] then I went to the academy for trials," he narrated, in an interview with iDiski Times.

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Reasons why Pirates are Nedbank Cup favourites

Sports Brief listed reasons why the Sea Robbers are favourites to win this year's Nedbank Cup trophy.

Their semi-final game with Chippa has already been decided, with the club looking to defend their title.

They will face either Mamelodi Sundowns or Stellenbosch FC in the final.