Swazi Observer

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‘YUKI’ RE-UNITES WITH PITSO

By JONGILE XUBA | 2025-01-23

SOCCER - FORMER Sihlangu Semnikati and Orlando Pirates midfielder Dennis ‘Yuki’ Masina has rekindled ties with his former coach, Pitso ‘Jingles’ Mosimane.

Masina, who played under Mosimane at SuperSport United, fondly known as ‘Matsatsantsa a Pitori’ from 2002 to 2004 and again in 2006, was among 87 coaches inducted into the PMSS programme at the High-Performance Centre in Pretoria.

Speaking to SABC Sports after his induction, the Eswatini football legend shared his gratitude and excitement for the opportunity to contribute to the sport. Masina said the programme was an avenue to give back to football and pass on the values instilled in him by Mosimane.

"I would like to thank the director and coach Pitso for having me in this programme, along with the whole team at Pitso Mosimane Soccer Schools.

Coming from Eswatini and having played under Coach Pitso, I know how he treats young boys and girls - just like he treated me when I joined SuperSport. It’s amazing that he started this initiative.

It’s going to uplift football here in South Africa, and hopefully, we’ll see more players going abroad in the future,” he said. Mosimane, widely regarded as the most successful South African football coach, signed Masina from Bush Bucks in 2002.

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Reflecting on their bond, the 42-year-old revealed how Mosimane not only shaped his football career but also transformed his personal life.

“I wouldn’t say he was my only coach, but he’s the one who went an extra mile for me. He helped me build a house back home in Eswatini when I was still young.

I remember him going to my father, to asked if I had a house. When my father said no, he told me he would use my sign-on fee to build one. Even today, that house stands as a reminder of his support. My father has since passed away, but without coach Pitso, I don’t think I would’ve had the foresight to build a home. Like many young players,

I was busy buying cars," he said.
Through the PMSS programme, Masina is determined to mentor young players and help them navigate the challenges of professional football, just as Mosimane once guided him.

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