Nkubu tipped for Premier League move

NTHAKO MAJORO

MASERU – The young and talented Masianokeng High School striker, Tumisang Nkubu, has caught the attention of scouts and coaches alike, with whispers of a premier league move growing louder after his stellar performance at the Alliance High School Tournament held at LCS Ground last Saturday.

Nkubu’s remarkable display of skill and composure on the field culminated in two sensational second-half goals, sealing a commanding 4-1 victory for his team against Bereng High School in a thrilling final match.

His exceptional performance did not go unnoticed, as he was also crowned the Player of the Tournament, adding a personal accolade to his team’s championship win.

The atmosphere was electric as fans and fellow students cheered on Nkubu, whose effortless ability to outmanoeuvre defenders and create scoring opportunities left spectators in awe.

The tournament, known for showcasing young talent, may have just unearthed its next star, as Nkubu’s name now echoes through the halls of Lesotho’s football community.

Masianokeng High School coach Tlokotsi Ndlovu could not hide his pride and optimism during a post-tournament interview with Public Eye.

“Of course, I can say he is ready to play in the Premier League, especially because of his discipline, amongst other things,” he said, his voice brimming with confidence.

Ndlovu’s endorsement of Nkubu’s readiness for the top-flight league is a sentiment echoed by many, who believe the young striker’s time has come. Bereng High School coach Caswell Moru, despite being on the losing side, was equally full of praise for Nkubu.

“This boy gave us a tough time, and because of his brilliance, Masianokeng was a one-man show,” Moru admitted. As a former Premier League coach and the former senior national team Likuena assistant coach, Moru’s words carry significant weight.

He was quick to draw parallels between Nkubu and Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who was instrumental in Spain’s dominance at the 2024 UEFA European Championship in Germany. “This is the same thing that applies with the Masianokeng striker,” Moru said, likening Nkubu’s potential to shine on bigger stages.

Moru’s conviction was clear: “He was a constant menace, and at his age, he must be scouted for the Premier League. That boy is a gem. We do not need to waste any time. The boy is ready.”

Nkubu’s journey to the premier league seems almost inevitable, with prominent figures in Lesotho’s football scene like Lesotho Institutions Sports Association (LISA) President, Teboho Pholo, also backing his potential.

Pholo observed that Nkubu, along with a few other standout players from the tournament, had the talent to compete at the highest level.

“I have seen three to four players in this tournament who can play in the premier league; for example, this boy (Nkubu) who has won the Player of the Tournament,” he said.

He also highlighted the success of previous players who had transitioned from high school tournaments to the Premier League clubs, noting that the Alliance High School Tournament had produced around eight players currently on Premier League rosters.

Among them are Matlama goalkeeper Leluma Mofoka and Majantja striker Moriana Moriana, whose paths from high school stardom to semi-professional football serve as a testament to the opportunities that tournaments like these can provide.

As Nkubu savours the moment and basks in the glory of his recent achievements, the next chapter of his football journey beckons.