Given Msimango

Sphiwe Given Msimango (born 4 May 1997) is a South African soccer player who plays for South African Premier Division side Kaizer Chiefs as a defender.

Given Msimango

Personal information
Full name	Sphiwe Given Msimango
Date of birth	(1997-05-04) 4 May 1997 (age 27)
Place of birth	Brakpan, South Africa[1]
Height	6 ft 2 in (1.89 m)[2]
Position(s)	Defender
Team information
Current team	Kaizer Chiefs
Number	26
Senior career*
Years	Team	Apps	(Gls)
2018–2020	Highlands Park	37	(2)
2020–2023	TS Galaxy	70	(4)
2023–	Kaizer Chiefs	26	(0)
*Club domestic league appearances and goals, correct as of 12 June 2024

Msimango played first-tier soccer for Highlands Park, whose licence was bought by TS Galaxy owned Tim Sukazi. Msimango subsequently continued his career in TS Galaxy. He played in defense and became the team captain.^[3] He was also active on Instagram and held deals to promote clothing brands.^[4]

During the 2022–23 South African Premier Division, Msimango featured in all 30 games. Reportedly, he had paid a physical coach out of his own pocket to ensure his playing fitness. His good form throughout the season earned him a transfer to big club Kaizer Chiefs.^[1] TS Galaxy owner commented on why they sold their best player: "We are realistic as well with regards to our business model as in how we are going to build and continue building this business model. Part of the model, of course, will be to follow the likes of Tottenham Hotspur".^[5]

The 2023–24 South African Premier Division saw Kaizer Chiefs finish in an all-time low position of 10th. Msimango was however called up to Bafana Bafana for 2026 World Cup qualifying matches in June 2024.^[6]

References

1. Rabothe, Tshepo (24 May 2023). "The big investment that gave Given Msimango the Chiefs move". FAR Post. Retrieved 13 July 2023.
2. "Sphiwe Msimango". Kaizer Chiefs. Retrieved 12 February 2024.
3. Molefe, Mazola (25 March 2023). "Chiefs sign TS Galaxy captain Given Msimango". SABC Sport. Retrieved 13 July 2023.
4. Mtuta, Lukhanyo (17 September 2021). "TS Galaxy baller's suit flexes". Kick Off. Retrieved 13 July 2023.
5. Madyira, Michael (3 April 2023). "Why Kaizer Chiefs signed Msimango explained, inspired by Bale's transfer from Tottenham to Real Madrid". Goal. Retrieved 13 July 2023.
6. Mnyandu, Velile (11 June 2024). "Bafana's call-up to uplift Msimango in a season of ups & downs at Chiefs". SABC Sport. Retrieved 12 June 2024.