‘Dancing Confidence’ Mthokozisi Ngcobo Speaks Out After Baroka Setback: “I’m Not Done Yet”

Former Premier Soccer League (PSL) fan-favourite Mthokozisi Ngcobo, affectionately known as ‘Dancing Confidence’, has broken his silence after a series of unfortunate events derailed what once seemed like a promising professional football career.

The 24-year-old midfielder, whose electrifying skills and footwork made him a darling among local football fans, opened up about his difficult journey in trying to cement a spot in professional football, despite undeniable talent and eye-catching performances at amateur and development level.

Ngcobo’s most recent attempt at establishing himself came through a two-year deal with Baroka FC, signed ahead of the 2023/24 season under then-coach Morgan Mammila. But his stay was short-lived, cut off prematurely by an unexpected administrative mishap — an ID documentation issue that rendered him ineligible to be registered at the time.

Although he was later brought back into the fold for the second half of the Motsepe Foundation Championship season, the team had since undergone changes, including a new head coach, and Ngcobo was eventually released once again.

“It’s tough, but I haven’t given up,” Ngcobo told KickOff.com. “I know how to play productive football because my modern stats never lie. I have assists, shots on target, and forward passes – that’s what I bring. The skill is just a bonus.”

Ngcobo, widely hailed for his dribbling flair and natural creativity in midfield, insists his flashy style has always been geared toward uplifting the team rather than seeking personal glory.

“I don’t think coaches hate players like us. They just want productivity – and rightly so. At the end of the day, goals win games and we all play for those three points,” he explained.

“But I also believe fans deserve entertainment. They pay money and give up their time to come and support us. They should leave the stadium smiling, and sometimes it’s those little moments – a slick pass, a bit of flair – that make it worth it.”

Reflecting on his stint with Baroka, Ngcobo admits the timing just wasn’t right.

“I also don’t know what went wrong, but there wasn’t enough time to regain fitness. By the time I rejoined, it was the second round, and I hadn’t been playing anywhere else due to the contract. I was just training individually. That’s never the same as training with a team,” he said.

Having missed out on competitive action, including tournaments like the Philis Games due to his contractual situation, Ngcobo says the lack of match fitness affected his ability to make an immediate impact.

However, it’s not the end of the road.

This publication has learned that Ngcobo is set to be assessed by Chippa United during their pre-season preparations. If successful, it could offer a lifeline to a player still hungry to make his mark at the highest level.

As he awaits the next chapter, Ngcobo remains hopeful and focused.

“I’m not a showboater. I’m a natural number 10 with good footwork. I just want to play the kind of football that makes the team better and gives the fans something to cheer about. That’s who I am,” he said.

Whether or not he lands the next contract, one thing is certain – ‘Dancing Confidence’ is not ready to stop dancing just yet.