Bafana star Olwethu Makhanya honoured by MLS club ahead of World Cup

Author: iol.co.zaPublished on: June 11, 2026Country: South Africa

Sports

Bafana star Olwethu Makhanya honoured by MLS club ahead of World Cup

Major League Soccer club Philadelphia Union honored South African defender Olwethu Makhanya, 21, with a photoshoot at iconic Philadelphia landmarks, including the Rocky Statue, to celebrate his inclusion in Hugo Broos' World Cup squad. Makhanya, from KwaMakhutha (KwaZulu-Natal), started at Stellenbosch FC before moving to MLS in 2024. The club's post was captioned: 'From the Philly steps to the world stage.' The player's journey symbolizes perseverance and hard work, akin to Rocky Balboa.

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