Thabo Cele Reflects on Facing Thalente Mbatha and Flying the KwaMashu Flag in the Soweto Derby

Kaizer Chiefs midfielder Thabo Cele has opened up about the emotional and personal significance of facing his childhood friend and fellow KwaMashu native, Thalente Mbatha, in South Africa’s biggest football spectacle—the Soweto Derby.

Cele and Mbatha, who grew up in the same Durban township, went head-to-head in recent high-stakes clashes between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, including the Nedbank Cup final which Amakhosi won. While Mbatha had the upper hand in their Betway Premiership clash the previous week, it was Cele’s side that triumphed when it mattered most, lifting the Nedbank Cup and ending Chiefs’ decade-long trophy drought.

Speaking after the game on SuperSport’s “Extra Time,” Cele highlighted the personal pride he felt in playing the final in his hometown. “The derby is a derby no matter what, but this one, a final in my hometown, was a special occasion for me. I can’t explain, but for me and Thalente, coming from the same area, KwaMashu, we were representing the same location. It was special for me and my people,” said Cele.

Since joining Kaizer Chiefs in January, Cele has made 15 appearances and has quickly become a reliable presence in midfield. His performance in the Nedbank Cup final not only symbolized a professional milestone but also represented a powerful moment of pride for KwaMashu, a township known for producing footballing talent.

While the two stars battled for bragging rights in Soweto’s fiercest rivalry, their bond remains strong. In a show of unity and commitment to giving back, Cele and Mbatha are teaming up to host the inaugural Thabo Thalente Games in June. The event, set to take place at Princess Magogo Stadium in KwaMashu, will be a celebration of sports and community spirit.

The festival will feature a variety of activities including football, netball, chess, and the traditional game mlabalaba. There will also be a coaching clinic and a legends match, creating an inclusive experience aimed at inspiring the next generation of KwaMashu youth.

Their story—of two boys from the same neighbourhood rising to national stardom and using their platforms to uplift their community—has resonated with fans across South Africa. And while rivalries on the pitch are fierce, Cele and Mbatha’s friendship and shared roots serve as a reminder of the unity that sport can foster beyond the final whistle.