SIPHIWE Tshabalala's night with the stars in Zurich on Monday night has intensified his interest in playing in Europe.
His opening goal during the 2010 Fifa World Cup, a thunderous 55th-minute strike against Mexico, was nominated at the Fifa Puskas Awards.
Turkey's Hamit Altintop scooped the prize. But that did not faze Tshabalala, who expressed delight at rubbing shoulders with the world's best footballers.
"It was a nice experience being around those high-profile people. I'm just grateful and happy to have been nominated," said the Kaizer Chiefs dangerman.
He said he feels he should have won but nevertheless was still happy with the recognition: "I am a little bit disappointed. That was the opening goal of the World Cup in Africa, but I am not bitter."
Tshabalala mingled with (Barca teammates) Andres Iniesta and Xavi, Barca coach Pep Guardiola and Maicon.
"They actually came over to greet and congratulate me and I was humbled to realise that they still remember me."
Tshabalala said he had not discussed anything serious with Guardiola. "He came over to congratulate me,"' he said with a smile.
His business manager, Jazzman Mahlakgane, thanked South Africans for their support: "Even President Zuma called to congratulate him. This has been a great experience, he networked with people at his level."
Shabba takes Zurich in his stride
SIPHIWE Tshabalala's night with the stars in Zurich on Monday night has intensified his interest in playing in Europe.
His opening goal during the 2010 Fifa World Cup, a thunderous 55th-minute strike against Mexico, was nominated at the Fifa Puskas Awards.
Turkey's Hamit Altintop scooped the prize. But that did not faze Tshabalala, who expressed delight at rubbing shoulders with the world's best footballers.
"It was a nice experience being around those high-profile people. I'm just grateful and happy to have been nominated," said the Kaizer Chiefs dangerman.
He said he feels he should have won but nevertheless was still happy with the recognition: "I am a little bit disappointed. That was the opening goal of the World Cup in Africa, but I am not bitter."
Tshabalala mingled with (Barca teammates) Andres Iniesta and Xavi, Barca coach Pep Guardiola and Maicon.
"They actually came over to greet and congratulate me and I was humbled to realise that they still remember me."
Tshabalala said he had not discussed anything serious with Guardiola. "He came over to congratulate me,"' he said with a smile.
His business manager, Jazzman Mahlakgane, thanked South Africans for their support: "Even President Zuma called to congratulate him. This has been a great experience, he networked with people at his level."
Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Trending
Latest Videos