Online Reporter
Makokoba-bred midfield maestro Tafadzwa Dhliwayo has declared his ambition to don the Warriors jersey as he continues to shine in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Now 25, Dhliwayo plies his trade in the UAE Pro League with Dibba FC, having joined the club at just 19 after an eye catching season with the then Zimbabwe Football Association (Zifa) Southern Region Soccer League side Indlovu Iyanyathela, now known as Imbizo FC.
Sharing his dream of playing for the national team, Dhliwayo said: “I just hope one day I will represent my country.”
Despite boasting technical skill and attacking flair, his presence in the Middle East may limit his visibility to national team selectors unless Zifa actively tracks his progress.
In Zimbabwe for pre-season, Dhliwayo spent much of last season side lined by a foot injury but recovered in time to feature in the closing stages.
A former Gifford High School student, his breakthrough came in 2016 when, at just 15, he was named Most Valuable Player (MVP) at the International Copa Coca-Cola football camp in France.
His performances caught the eye of Paris Saint-Germain academy coach Didier Manila, who described him as “one of the best talents at the camp”, praising his movement and dribbling ability.
He also earned praise from former FC Barcelona captain Xavi Hernandez, who selected him as MVP and awarded him the prestigious Golden Trophy for his standout performances.
A tactically astute and versatile midfielder, Dhliwayo can play both as a creative playmaker and a deep lying anchor.
The rising star is a product of Real Stars Academy, also based in Makokoba. — Online/Sports Reporter
