South Africa-based Flames captain Gabadinho Mhango says he is enjoying his role as a Supersport Television pundit for the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon). The Richards Bay FC forward has been in the limelight as he analyses matches and issues relating to the continental showpiece being held in Morocco. In an interview yesterday, Mhango said: “I am learning from experts and people who have been in the game for quite some time.
“I am enjoying every moment, it has been an exciting and fulfilling adventure commenting on different topics. “The feedback from people has been encouraging…kuphunzira basi [it is a learning process].” Asked if he would consider taking up the role on permanent basis in future after hanging up his boots, the 33-year-old marksman laughed and said: “I wouldn’t mind. I am not sure yet, but it is something I would consider.” During the analysis of the match between Mozambique and Gabon, the show host Thomas Mlambo sought Mhango’s views on players above 30 being viewed as too old in Africa.
In response, the battle hardened striker said: “Age is just a number. It is all about how you give the service to your team. It is about how you lift the team up.
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“I know that in Africa, as long as you get to your 30s, you are old. In Europe, when you get to your 30s, that’s when you become a [serious] footballer. “When you are 20, you play football for fun, but when you are in your 30a, you play for business because you are mature and you are heading towards the end of your career.” He cited former Mamelodi Sundowns winger Elias Pelembe on why players should not be judged based on age alone. “Pelembe is 40, but this is the guy who has the body of a 16-year-old..” Mhango is eighth Fames’ all-time leading scorer with 18 goals in 71 appearances and the only one still active in the top 10.
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