Makhanya vs Messi: SA Defender Sparks Social Media Frenzy

Philadelphia Union's South African defender Olwethu Makhanya has gone viral after his fierce battle with Argentine great, Lionel Messi. 

Check it out!

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The story

The former Stellenbosch FC centre-back has been doing the rounds on the various social media platforms for his fiery duel with Inter Miami talisman, Lionel Messi. 

Makhanya stood his ground against the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner after the latter reacted to a light push from the Durban-born youngster. 

Messi scored Miami's second in their 2-1 win over Bradley Carnell's Philadelphia Union on Sunday, with Makhanya being introduced as a substitute in the second half.

In July 2023, Makhanya made the move from Betway Premiership out Stellenbosch FC to Philadelphia following a standout period with the Cape Winelands team.

Philadelphia Union's South African defender Olwethu Makhanya has gone viral after his fierce battle with Argentine great, Lionel Messi. Instagram Sourced from Instagram/@makhanya_38

Philadelphia Union's South African defender Olwethu Makhanya has gone viral after his fierce battle with Argentine great, Lionel Messi. Instagram Sourced from Instagram/@makhanya_38

The 20-year-old, known for his ball-playing abilities as a centre-back, initially played for Union's second team in the MLS NXT Pro before earning a spot in the first team this season.

He had a solid start, appearing in the first four matches of the campaign. However, a red card in a 3-1 defeat to Nashville halted his momentum and resulted in a suspension.

Read: Dikgacoi Opens Up About His EPL Journey 

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Watch Makhanya duel with Messi: