Amajita and Kaizer Chiefs utility player Steven Mendes has opened up about his surprise at being deployed as a forward during the U20 COSAFA Cup.
Mendes played a key role in South Africa’s title-winning campaign, helping the team secure qualification for the 2027 U20 Africa Cup of Nations.
The versatile player scored six goals throughout the tournament, including the decisive winner against Mozambique in the final, which saw him claim the Golden Boot.
Although Mendes usually operates in midfield, he admitted that he was surprised to be used as a striker but was delighted with how quickly he adapted to the role and contributed to the team’s success.
“Even for me, it was a bit of a surprise, playing striker. I had to adapt quickly, making sure I provide for the team, in which I scored goals. That’s the striker’s job and I think I did that well,” said Mendes.
The Chiefs youngster says it was a great feeling to represent the national team at his first major tournament, and he is now looking forward to making even more appearances for South Africa.
“It was my first major competition for the national team. Obviously, it’s a great feeling, a feeling that I want to experience a lot more. Hopefully, I can experience that again in the future.”
Despite receiving plenty of praise for his goalscoring exploits, Mendes was quick to stress that the team’s success was a collective effort, with every player making a valuable contribution.
“At the end of the day, it’s a team effort. Everyone gave their all, everyone contributed. It’s just a team effort at the end of the day.”