Siphiwe Tshabalala is one of the most revered football legends who made his name with Bafana Bafana and Kaizer Chiefs – he speaks about the drama-filled Nedbank Cup tournament. The Phiri-born icon exclusively speaks to Gauteng News about his ambassadorial role with the banking institution, Nedbank.
Among some of the topics he touches on are the importance of financial planning, and the Nedbank Cup tournament so far including his former team, Amakhosi. Tshabalala also unpacks his role with the country’s biggest financial institution, Nedbank saying it’s been a wonderful journey for him.
With his Amakhosi out of the Nedbank Cup tournament, Shabba looks at the shocking results and all the drama in this season’s edition. Meanwhile, the defending champions Orlando Pirates, SuperSport United, and Mamelodi Sundowns are through to the Last Eight as they are gunning for the coveted title.
“We are proud to be at the forefront of initiatives that bring fans closer to the heart of the game,” remarked Nthabiseng Matshekga Executive Head of Integrated Marketing and Experience at Nedbank after the Last Eight draw.
“From the launch of Ya Rona House to the introduction of groundbreaking fan incentives, the Nedbank Cup is about more than just football – it’s about creating unforgettable moments and fostering a sense of community among supporters.”
Nedbank Cup: What Do You Make of the Nedbank Cup So Far?
Siphiwe Tshabalala: “It’s been a great one so far and from an organisational point of view, one has to give credit to Nedbank for the great job they’ve been doing for 17 years in a row. The tournament keeps growing and also Nedbank has invested over 20 million in prize money available, only for this year’s tourney.”
“It’s not the prize money for players and clubs but for the most important stakeholders in the game and that is the fans. So, they also get a share of that prize money which is good. They have been creative by adding another element which is the Ya Rona House.”
“The Ya Rona House serves as a hub for the fans and the media to watch the Nedbank Cup games with the legends and one of the best influencers in the country. This also gives them a fan experience by watching the game up close with their favourite legends and getting a chance to engage, and take pictures – it’s been a great experience.”
“On the field, it’s been great as well, great results and we are in the top eight now. It’s anybody’s cup, anyone has a chance to go all the way to the final.”
Looking at the shocking results involving the big guns, coach Cavin Johnson’s men were dispatched by minnows, Milford FC in the opening round. The dreadlocked legend who netted the first goal of the 2010 FIFA World Cup tournament in South Africa says that is the nature of the Nedbank Cup.
Nedbank Cup: Kaizer Chiefs Shocked By Minnows?
Siphiwe Tshabalala: “There’s no Nedbank without drama, without an upset, and the story of David and Goliath. Chiefs were a victim to that once again. Chiefs’ setback to this year’s edition gave Milford exposure, we didn’t even know their players but they got the opportunity and raised their hand.”
“Now that are known, it’s a good story for football to expect the unexpected. Milford FC, I believe they gave their all and they were rewarded. It’s one of the biggest upsets of the tournament and one of the biggest wins in their history.”
Nedbank Cup: What Does the Ambassadorial Role Entail?
Siphiwe Tshabalala: “My role is to amplify the tournament, give it a reach and engage with the fans about the tournament, and also to give awareness about the products that are available from Nedbank.”
Nedbank Cup: Your Thoughts on the Importance of Financial Planning…
Siphiwe Tshabalala: “It’s very important to plan your finances, have this topic not only for footballers but everyone including households and professionals. It’s a good education that everyone needs and for the foundation phase, you start learning how to manage your finances.”
“To start respecting and valuing money from a young age. Nedbank does have people who are experienced and can advise in that field in terms of planning your life.”
Nedbank Cup: And Saving Money as a Professional Footballer?
Siphiwe Tshabalala: “Look, from the day I started playing professionally, that’s the day I started planning about life after football. I have seen before, the challenges that footballers went through, go through, and are still going through post-retirement.”
“I wanted to change that. I wanted to live a good life as a football professional and a better life post my career. It’s difficult but doable if you remain level-headed and plan properly – seek advice from those who have the expertise.”
Related: Nedbank Cup Last 8 Draw: Sundowns Coach Reacts
