Exciting, skillful, and unpredictable, Thabo Qalinge has never shied away from expressing himself on the field. 'Section 10', as he is affectionately known, has entertained South Africa's football-loving public since he burst onto the PSL scene in 2013. Now at SuperSport United, let's take a trip down memory lane with the Chiskop left winger.
Scroll through the gallery above to view pics of Qalinge
Growing up in Mofolo, Soweto, football was part and parcel of Thabo Qalinge's childhood. In 2016, he told Soccer Laduma, "The area (Molofo) is split between Pirates and Chiefs supporters. These teams dominate my home area, and the rivalry definitely divides Soweto in two."
As a youngster, Qalinge played for Soshanguve Sunshine and then joined the SuperSport United academy.
In 2012, after catching the eye at academy level, then NFD side, Mpumalanga Black Aces, came calling, and his professional career took off upon his arrival.
Chiskop gains PSL promotion
Under the guidance of former Aces head coach, Jacob Sakala, the then 21-year-old was integral to the now-defunct club gaining promotion to the elite league in 2013.
During the 2013/14 season, the skilful winger was mentored by Bafana coaching legend, Clive Barker.
Still only 22 years old, he became one of Barker's go-to players during his time at Mpumalanga. After scoring two goals and amassing an impressive seven assists in his first top-flight season, Orlando Pirates knocked on his door, and having made 30 appearances for Aces, he then headed for greener pastures.
Qalinge heads to the Sea Robbers
Before the start of the 2014/15 season, 'Section 10' made his big move to Pirates, and much was expected of him, following his impressive form under Barker.
Over the next five years, Qalinge showed glimpses of his undeniable talent. His first goal for Pirates was an example of his ability, smashing the ball into the top corner against City in 2015.
However, at the Buccaneers, his injury problems prevented him from cementing a starting berth in the side. As a consequence, he was often utilized as an impact player, starting from the bench.
Lack of silverware at Pirates
Despite winning the 2015 Carling Black Label Cup, trophies at the Buccaneers eluded him. He was a losing Nedbank Cup finalist in 2016 and was also part of the Pirates team that lost the Telkom Knockout final against Baroka FC last season.
By the end of his time in the famous Black and White colours, he had made a total of 79 appearances, scoring six goals and three assists.
Return to SuperSport United
The 27-year-old was released from Pirates in August 2019, and after a successful trial with Matsatsantsa, he signed a one-year deal with the Pretoria-based club. He'll be looking to make an impact after being an unused substitute against Highlands Park, as his new team won the MTN8 earlier this season.
Soccer Laduma interesting facts
- In an interview on the Soccer Laduma website, the Chiskop admitted that he was a childhood Kaizer Chiefs fan.
- On the Soccer Laduma website, Qalinge included the three players he loved watching as an aspiring footballer. The three players are Thabo Mooki, the late Gift Leremi and Lebohang 'Cheeseboy' Mokoena.
- In issue 964 of Soccer Laduma, former teammate, Thabo Rakhale, revealed that he once found the speedy winger sleeping with his eyes wide open, as he must have been suffering from insomnia.
- In the same edition, Rakhale said the Chiskop enjoyed making prank calls during his time at Orlando Pirates.
Chiskop recognition
In 2014, after Aces played to a 1-1 draw against Pirates, Barker said, "You saw a bit of Doctor Khumalo tonight, you saw a bit of 'Shoes' Moshoeu, he (Qalinge) is a terrific player. I sing his praises every time he plays because every time he plays, he excites."
