Raymond Mdaka sends message to Steven Mendes after striker's COSAFA Cup heroics

Mendes finished the tournament as the Golden Boot winner after scoring six goals, including in the final as South Africa defeated the hosts 2-1 to lift the trophy.

The striker's goalscoring exploits have been particularly encouraging given the ongoing concerns around South Africa's lack of consistent goal-scorers.

Mdaka praised Mendes' performances but challenged the youngster to remain disciplined and continue working hard if he is to fulfil his potential.

"I'm pleased to see him play like this. You see the issue of strikers in the country, but to see that kind of a small boy, a young boy, coming up like that in front of the goals," said the Amajita coach.

"He just needs a bit of hard work, discipline and understanding. He will become a better player."

Mendes' emergence comes at a time when the shortage of reliable goal-scorers remains a talking point in South African football.

Current Bafana Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane has also acknowledged the need for a striker, with the national team looking for greater consistency in front of goal.

The issue was also evident during Hugo Broos' five-year spell in charge of Bafana, while South African forwards have continued to struggle for goals in the Betway Premiership.

Mdaka also praised Amajita captain Lazola Maku, who was named in the Under-20 COSAFA Cup Best XI following an impressive campaign.

Maku entered the tournament without a club after Siwelele parted ways with him, while he also missed pre-season training. However, Mdaka believes his previous tournament experience helped him deliver when South Africa needed him.

"Yeah, well, you know, the experience has done a lot, honestly, especially in this tournament," he added.

"He showed character. He showed the experience of having played in the other tournaments. Sometimes when you are Under-18, it depends on those who know you. I know Lazola best. Even if I would get him not being fine, I would believe he would fight. Good for him, honestly."

Amajita will now turn their attention to the Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which gets underway in Ghana in February 2027.