Coach calls 21-year-old Chiefs loanee a true professional

Kaizer Chiefs’ academy continues to make its mark beyond South Africa’s borders.

Black Lions FC coach Owen da Gama has lauded Amakhosi loanee Xolani Cossa for his commitment and competence.

KAIZER CHIEFS LOANEE XOLANI COSSA MAKING WAVES IN BOTSWANA

The 21-year-old centre-back, who kicks the football with his left foot, joined the Botswana Premier League outfit on loan until the end of the season after outgrowing the DStv Diski Challenge (DDC).

With the likes of Aden McCarthy and Rushwin Dortely competing for the left-sided central defence role, Cossa needed to earn minutes elsewhere. Kaizer Chiefs have three more experienced central defenders in Inacio Miguel, Zitha Kwinika and Given Msimango, all of whom can do a job in the left side when called upon.

OWEN DA GAMA PRAISE

Following his team’s narrow 1-0 defeat to Mochudi Centre Chiefs on Friday, Da Gama couldn’t hold back his admiration. “Xolani is a true professional,” he told FARPost. “I’m proud to say that Chiefs, Pirates and Sundowns always produce quality professional players.”

The veteran coach said Cossa has already lifted the level of his backline. “We are happy to have him here. He has added such a lot of impetus in our defence. It was evident once he went off, we started battling a little bit at the back there.”

Meanwhile, Black Lions are placed 10th after three wins, two draws and six defeats.