Wonder Nhleko Explained

Wonder Mabandla Nhleko (born 16 April 1981) is a Liswati former footballer.^[1]

Early life

Nhleko started playing football at a young age and was a more individualistic player as a youth player.^[2]

Club career

Nhleko is nicknamed "Samba Jive".^[3] He has been regarded as one of the most experienced players in Eswatini and played in South Africa.^[4] He has been regarded as one of the most important players of Swazi side Mbabane Swallows.^[5] He helped the club win every trophy in Swaziland and achieve a season-long unbeaten run that included the CAF Confederation Cup group stage.^[6] He has been the oldest player to play in the Swazi top flight.^[7]

International career

Nhleko made his COSAFA Cup debut for Eswatini in 2002 .^[8] Altogether, he has made 45 appearances for the Eswatini national football team.

Style of play

Nhleko mainly operates as a winger and is known for his speed.^[9] He has also been known for his ability to score "wonder goals".^[10]

Post-playing career

Nhleko has taken managerial courses.^[11]

Personal life

Nhleko has been married.^[12] He is the son of Abner Sipho Nhleko.^[13]

Notes and References

1. Web site: I CAN STILL PLAY FOR THREE SEASONS – WONDER. observer.org.sz.
2. Web site: I USED TO BE A UNIQUE PLAYER – ‘SAMBA JIVE’. observer.org.sz.
3. Web site: Wonder Nhleko - African Sports Monthly article.
4. Web site: SAMBA READY TO JIVE AGAIN FOR ‘BIRDS’. times.co.sz.
5. Web site: ‘SAMBA JIVE’ NOT THINKING OF RETIREMENT. observer.org.sz.
6. Web site: ‘SAMBA JIVE’ HITS 40. times.co.sz.
7. Web site: STAY AWAY FROM DRUGS, BE DISCIPLINED – MTN GONG WINNING ‘SAMBA JIVE’. times.co.sz.
8. Web site: Wonder Nhleko believes Swaziland can win the COSAFA Cup. snl24.com.
9. Web site: Wonder Nhleko - Independent News Eswatini article.
10. Web site: SO WONDER-FUL. times.co.sz.
11. Web site: Wonder Nhleko - News On Africa article.
12. Web site: Wonder Nhleko - Times Of Swaziland article.
13. Web site: SAMBA JIVE’ SET TO HANG UP HIS BOOTS. observer.org.sz.