Diski stars are closing in on first-team contracts

As we count down to the resumption of the DStv Diski Challenge next weekend, we take a look at some of the players who are earning playing time in the DStv Premiership.

When the DStv Premiership resumed this past weekend, a few DStv Diski Challenge youngsters were given a few minutes and are on the cusp of securing a first-team contract.

With these individuals being roped into their respective club first teams, it is a sign that performances in the second half of the Diski Challenge should enable them to seal the deal for that coveted first-team contract.

With seven days remaining before the resumption of the DStv Diski Challenge, the following youngsters were part of their respective senior teams this past weekend, and they will be part of the Diski Challenge this coming weekend.

The Diski Challenge campaign will resume with a festival that will be hosted at Solomon Mahlangu Stadium in Mpumalanga on Saturday and Sunday (7-8 January 2023).

Yanela Mbuthuma (Richards Bay FC)

The promising striker was part of the Rich Boyz team that defeated Swallows 1-0 on Saturday. With Mbuthuma not getting much game time in the first team, he is bound to feature this coming weekend when the Diski Challenge resumes.

Thandolwethu Ngwenya (Swallows FC)

Ngwenya has been one of Swallows' shining stars in the Diski Challenge despite a few struggles. His outstanding performance has been rewarded with a first-team call-up. Undoubtedly, if he continues with the same performances next season, he could be a regular member of the Swallows first team.

Mduduzi Shabalala (Kaizer Chiefs)

Shabalala was introduced in the 65th minute when Chiefs beat Arrows 2-0 on Saturday. He had a good match and even got an opportunity to score his second goal in the DStv Premiership, but he could not beat Arrows goalkeeper Sifiso Mlungwana.

Wandile Duba (Kaizer Chiefs)

Duba is another gem that coach Vela Khumalo (Chiefs Diski Challenge coach) will recall to the Diski Challenge as Amakhosi continue with their title quest. Duba also tasted senior team football as he came on as a substitute against Golden Arrows on Saturday.