admin
The village of Tsitsing in Rustenburg is alive with celebration following the recent victory of South Africa’s U-20 national team, Amajita, at the Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). At the heart of the triumph is 19-year-old Neo Rapoo, a promising defender from SuperSport United, whose standout performances have not only helped his team lift the trophy but have also caught the attention of top European clubs.
Neo, who began his football journey at the age of 11 when SuperSport United scouts visited his school, has become a symbol of hope for many rural youth. Speaking to Radio 2000, he shared how he was the only player selected during that scouting session, later progressing through the ranks under the guidance of coaches such as Kopo, Junior Bhengu, Katza, and Godfrey Motsoetsa.
“I’m from Tsitsing in Rustenburg. I’ve been at SuperSport United since I was 11 years old,” said Rapoo. “They came to my school to scout for players and I was the only one who was selected to go to the Academy.
Rapoo, who models his game on elite defenders like Nuno Mendes, Aubrey Modiba, and Basadien, is known for his versatility—comfortable playing left back, left wing, or wherever the team needs him. He dreams of following in the footsteps of his good friend Shandre Campbell by breaking into the European football scene.
“My main goal is to play overseas. Hopefully, God will also open the doors for me,” he added.
Among the many voices celebrating his success is Kgosona Koketso Rakhudu of Kgotla ya Rakhudu in Tsitsing. “The whole village is proud of the boy. He is a force to be reckoned with and a true inspiration to the youth of our rural communities,” Kgosana Rakhudu said.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings