Global Recognition As Shabba Joins FIFA

South African legend Siphiwe Tshabalala has been appointed to the inaugural FIFA Players Executive Programme.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Tshabalala in a letter, expressing his anticipation to meet him and hear his insights on the innovation that will shape the game for years to come.

“Looking forward to partaking in the inaugural Players Executive Programme. FIFA student,” Tshabalala shared on his social media account.

“Shabba” gained global recognition for scoring the opening goal for Bafana Bafana against Mexico in the 2010 FIFA World Cup at FNB Stadium, a superb strike executed with his powerful left foot after a quick one-two pass.

However, Bafana Bafana were unable to progress beyond the group stage of the World Cup, becoming the first host nation at the time to fail to reach the knockout rounds. South Africa has since been joined by Qatar, who also failed to advance when they hosted the tournament in 2022.

Tshabalala, who was the 2010 SAFA Footballer of the Year and earned 89 caps for the South African national team (70 starts and 19 substitutions), scored 12 goals for Bafana Bafana. He was also named Kaizer Chiefs Player of the Season three times: in 2008/2009, 2011/2012, and 2016/2017.

Furthermore, “Shabba” holds the record for the most appearances in the Soweto Derby against Orlando Pirates since the formation of the PSL in 1996. The 40-year-old played in 31 Derbies, scoring four goals. His first Derby appearance was on 24 November 2007 (a 2-2 away draw).

He enjoyed a successful career with Kaizer Chiefs, winning numerous trophies, including the league title twice (2012/2013, 2014/2015), the Telkom Knockout three times (2007, 2010, 2011), the MTN8 twice (2008, 2014), and the Nedbank Cup once (2013).