Cape Town Spurs' decision to appoint Benson Mhlongo as Ernst Middendorp's assistant coach is proving to be a masterstroke.
Since joining the club earlier this month, Mhlongo has already had a positive impact, helping the team secure a crucial 2-0 victory against Baroka FC.
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This result significantly boosts the club's chances of avoiding relegation in the Motsepe Foundation Championship.
Mhlongo stepped into the role following the departure of Vasili Manousakis, who left to join Benni McCarthy in Kenya's national team setup.
With extensive experience in the South African football landscape, particularly in the second tier, Mhlongo has held coaching roles at Black Leopards and TS Sporting, since he started at Orlando Pirates after his retirement in 2016.
His expertise and tactical awareness are beginning to reflect in Spurs' performances on the pitch.
The win over Bakgaga has propelled the Urban Warriors to 14th place in the league standings, now two points clear of 15th-placed Venda Football Academy and four points ahead of bottom-placed Leruma United.
This upward trajectory suggests that Mhlongo's influence is already making a significant difference in the team's fight for survival.
Mhlongo appears to be a lucky charm for Spurs, as his recent achievements highlight his ability to bring success wherever he goes.
His appointment follows his recognition as the third-place winner in the Betway 12th Man Business Innovation Series, which wrapped up its second season successfully.
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"After a successful conclusion of Season 2 of the Betway 12th Man program, the participants have started the new year off with a bang. The 3rd place winner of the Betway 12th Man Business Innovation Series, Benson Mhlongo was appointed as Cape Town Spurs new Assistant Coach. A former player for Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates, Mhlongo won two league titles with both clubs, showcasing his expertise and leadership on the field. He will now lend that experience to help guide Cape Town Spurs alongside head coach Ernst Middendorp. Mhlongo's appointment comes shortly after he was appointed as the Coordinator and Player Development Manager at the South African Football Players Union (SAFPU) in October 2024. He is now ready to embrace this new opportunity with Cape Town Spurs and contribute to the growth of the club," Betway 12th Man organisers proudly noted of Mhlongo's achievements in a statement.
The other winners and participants of the Betway 12th Man program include Dino Bagattin and Hekkie Budler, Nontle Gwavu, former Banyana Banyana captain Janine van Wyk, ex-Pirates and Sundowns midfielder Benedict 'Tso' Vilakazi, as well as Netball Proteas' star Phumza Maweni and former cricketer Mangaliso Mosehle.
