Shakes Mashaba

Shakes Mashaba is a renowned South African football coach and former player, known for his exceptional skills on the field and his successful coaching career with teams like Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs, and the South Africa national football team. He has worked with prominent players such as Steven Pienaar, Benni McCarthy, and Aaron Mokoena, and has participated in notable tournaments like the African Cup of Nations and the FIFA World Cup. Mashaba's coaching style has been influenced by his experiences playing for Moroka Swallows and Witbank Aces, as well as his time as an assistant coach for Bafana Bafana under Clive Barker.

● Early Life and Career

Mashaba was born in Soweto, South Africa, and began his football career playing for local clubs like Moroka Swallows and Witbank Aces. He was part of the South African football team that competed in the Cosafa Cup and the African Cup of Nations Qualifiers. Mashaba's early career was also shaped by his experiences playing against teams like Zambia national football team, Mozambique national football team, and Angola national football team. He has mentioned being inspired by coaches like Vladimir Vermezovic and Gordon Igesund, who have also worked with teams like Mamelodi Sundowns and Ajax Cape Town.

● Coaching Career

Mashaba's coaching career began with Witbank Aces, where he worked as an assistant coach under Ted Dumitru. He later moved to Orlando Pirates, where he won the Premier Soccer League title and the MTN 8. Mashaba has also coached Kaizer Chiefs, leading them to victory in the Telkom Knockout and the Nedbank Cup. His coaching style has been compared to that of Pitso Mosimane, who has also worked with Mamelodi Sundowns and the South Africa national football team. Mashaba has also been influenced by his experiences working with Caf and Fifa, and has participated in coaching clinics and workshops organized by Uefa and Conmebol.

● International Career

Mashaba has had a successful international career, working as an assistant coach for Bafana Bafana under Clive Barker during the 1996 African Cup of Nations. He later became the head coach of the South Africa national football team, leading them to the 2004 African Cup of Nations and the 2006 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. Mashaba has also worked with the South Africa national under-23 football team, helping them qualify for the 2000 Summer Olympics. His international experience has included working with teams like Egypt national football team, Cameroon national football team, and Nigeria national football team, and participating in tournaments like the FIFA Confederations Cup and the African Nations Championship.

● Managerial Style and Legacy

Mashaba's coaching style is known for being disciplined and tactical, with a focus on developing young players and creating a strong team dynamic. He has been praised for his ability to motivate players and get the best out of them, as seen in his work with Itumeleng Khune, Siphiwe Tshabalala, and Katlego Mphela. Mashaba's legacy in South African football is significant, with many considering him one of the best coaches in the country's history. He has been recognized for his contributions to the sport, including being awarded the South African Football Association's Coach of the Year award. Mashaba's influence can be seen in the work of other coaches, such as Gavin Hunt and Stuart Baxter, who have also worked with teams like Bidvest Wits and SuperSport United.

● Personal Life

Mashaba is known for being a private person, but it is reported that he is married and has children. He is a devout Christian and has spoken about the importance of his faith in his life and career. Mashaba has also been involved in various charity initiatives, including working with UNICEF and the Nelson Mandela Foundation. He has been recognized for his contributions to the community, including being awarded the Order of Ikhamanga by the South African government. Mashaba's personal life has also been influenced by his experiences working with FIFA and CAF, and participating in events like the FIFA Congress and the CAF Awards.