Siphiwe Tshabalala was widely unknown outside of South Africa up until he scored against Mexico on Fridays World Cup opener against Mexico.

The hosts took the lead by Siphiwe Tshabalala’s strike on the 55th minute and though Mexico was arguably the better side, Tshabalala effort and determination made him a hero for the African nation.

Mexico equalized later in the game and the game finished a 1-1 draw but this did not stop the crown of man of the match to be given to Tshabalala, and for the excitement of the South African’s to carry on throughout the night.

Tshabalala is currently playing for Kaizer Chiefs where he had entered the youth program and is a first 11 choice. He started football from a very young age in the streets of South Africa but said that he new he wanted to become a footballer when he was only 10-years-old.

NationalTurk caught up with Siphiwe Tshabalala and asked him some questions which many of his fans want to find out about the new hero of South Africa.

Interview with Siphiwe Tshabalala

Where were you Born?
“I was born in Phiri, Soweto, just 7 minutes west from the Orlando Stadium.”

Why is Jo’Burg so famous for great footballers in South Africa?
“I think it’s the skill, the flair and the passion for the game that most people have.”

Being brought up in Jo’Burg did you believe you would be a Pro Footballer?
“Ja, I had that belief when I was still young. Every kid on the street played soccer, but at the age of 10, I realised I had potential and that I could make something out of this. So that’s when it all started.”

Which team did you support growing up?
“Kaizer Chiefs all the way!”

Who was your greatest South African inspiration?
“Benni McCarthy. I adore good things. I like copying good things. I’m not jealous. “

Which players would you really want to play against in the World Cup?
“Messi, Ronaldo, Xavi and Iniesta. I like their style of play, the way they control the ball and the way they move. Every time they play, they take charge of the game.”

Do you think you will carry on showing your talent on the field?
“It’s about believing in yourself. When you get on the field you must have confidence and forget about everything, put your focus on the game from the first whistle, to the last.”

What is your goal in football?
“To play overseas. I want to go to England. “

How does it feel like to be a celebrity?
“It’s not easy to be famous, to be a public figure. You know I’m a role model, I don’t drink. I have to look after myself. “

If you weren’t a professional football player what would you be?
“I wanted to be a chartered accountant.”

What is your biggest motivation on the field?
“Whenever I take the field I know my family is behind me, God is behind me and the supporters fill the stadium to watch me play.”

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