Praise Dumi Dhlakama
When Nust FC were battling relegation last season, they faced a goalkeeping crisis. First-choice goalkeeper Never Tigere, had other commitments, forcing the club to search for an alternative. That’s when youngster Makhosiwonke Dlamini stepped in.
The Chicken Inn junior product was thrown into the fray by coach Limakatso Khabo in one of Nust’s toughest matches against Hwange at the Nust Stadium.
Hwange, gunning for the championship, had a formidable attack featuring Southern Region Soccer League’s lethal duo of MWOS midfielder Marceline Mlilo and Highlanders winger, Mongameli Tshuma.
The Njabulo Dube-coached outfit was expected to overwhelm the league newcomers. However, they were thwarted by an 18-year-old goalkeeper, who shone throughout the afternoon.
Dlamini, alongside recently signed Highlanders centre back Rayton Chuma, frustrated Hwange all afternoon, producing top-drawer saves that had everyone asking who he was. The match ended in a one-all stalemate, putting a dent in Hwange’s title hopes.
Dlamini’s heroics didn’t go unnoticed, and he quickly became a fan favourite. His impressive performances have earned him a reputation as one of the most promising young goalkeepers in the league.
Dlamini credits his brother Mbonisinkosi for pushing him to play football.
“I always enjoyed playing football from a young age. I used to play with my brother. I come from a family of four, and I’m the last born. My brother was also a goalkeeper, and he inspired me,” Dlamini said.
Growing up in Mpopoma, Dlamini attended Somvubu High School, where he balanced his academic pursuits with his passion for football. He played for Natson Football Club before joining Chicken Inn juniors, where he sharpened his craft under the guidance of his junior coaches.
“I’ve learned a lot from my coaches, Velaphi at Natson and Charlie at Chicken Inn,” Dlamini said.
“They taught me the importance of hard work, discipline and teamwork. I’m grateful for their support and guidance.”
Dlamini’s impressive performances for Chicken Inn FC’s Division Two side last season earned him a move to Nust FC. His 15 clean sheets in 21 games for Chicken Inn make him proud.
“That season was my best. I’m proud of it because I could see that goalkeeping is a calling for me. I’ve always been driven by hard work and determination,” Dlamini said, citing Aaron Ramsdale and Jude Bellingham as sporting influences.
“I admire their work ethic and dedication to their football. I try to emulate them in my own game.”
Dlamini also led his school, Somvubu High to the Orap Zenzele Cup final, which they unfortunately lost to Hwange, but he was motivated by the medal he got from the tournament in 2024.
When he’s not on the pitch, Dlamini enjoys listening to music to get him pumped up for matches. His favourite meal is chips and chicken, and he’s a die-hard FC Barcelona fan.
As he looks to the future, Dlamini’s philosophy is simple: “Good things take time. Fall seven times and stand up eight times. Keep pushing, no matter what.” He also hopes to study at Nust and play for the team after he finishes his Advanced Level.
On his nickname, “Yoghurt,”Dlamini shares a humorous story. “When my mother was pregnant with me, I’m told she enjoyed eating yoghurt. So, when I was born, my sister called me Yoghurt, and it stuck with me up to now,” he laughs.
The young goalkeeper’s rise to stardom is one to watch. His determination, skill and passion for the game make him an exciting prospect for Zimbabwean football.
Source: Herald Online