The Sundowns Secret
A week after the Curro Cup, Mkhize gets a call from a Sundowns U16 contact:
Contact: "We're running assessments in two weeks. Bring anyone worth a look raw talent, but disciplined."
Mkhize thinks of Lwazi immediately… then sighs. Disciplined. That's always been the problem.
That night at home, he finds Lwazi juggling the ball in the backyard.
Mkhize: "Keep training. Don't skip school. I'm watching."
Lwazi (rolling his eyes): "You always watching. Why? You think I'll mess up?"
Mkhize: "If you do, you'll lose chances you don't even know are coming."
Lwazi frowns, not realizing what Mkhize has planned for him.
Chiefs Pressure
At the same time, Chiefs are breathing down his neck. The WhatsApp group is wild:
"We need reports on five strikers by month-end."
"The Academy director wants more township kids this season."
"Pressure's on, gents. Don't miss anyone."
Mkhize feels the weight. His notebook is filled with names but he knows only a few will make it. And if he recommends the wrong one, his reputation is on the line.
Naledi Connection
One evening, Naledi invites Mkhize to watch her team's practice. He stands at the side as she runs drills, sharp and commanding. Afterward, they sit on the empty bench, floodlights glowing.
Naledi: "You carry the world on your shoulders, Mkhize. I can see it in your eyes."
Mkhize (quietly): "It's not just scouting. It's family too. My little brother… he could be special. But he doesn't see it yet."
Naledi (softly): "Then maybe he needs you more as a brother than as a scout."
For a moment, Mkhize forgets the chaos of football. Her words feel grounding.
The First School League Games
The school league kicks off alongside the GDL. It's chaos games every weekend, scouts everywhere. Mkhize runs from one ground to another, scribbling names, filming clips, sending reports.
In one fiery school match, Lwazi dominates two goals, one assist. Teachers and parents scream his name.
Mkhize watches quietly in the stands, writing only one note:
"He's ready."
Sundowns Assessment Revealed
That night, Mkhize finally sits Lwazi down.
Mkhize: "You want truth? You keep this form, I'll take you to Sundowns in two weeks. Official assessment. U16."
Lwazi (stunned): "Wait… Sundowns? The real Sundowns?"
Mkhize: "Yes. But if you bunk school or disrespect teachers once before then… I'm not taking you. No second chances."
Lwazi's jaw drops. He nods furiously, excitement burning in his eyes.
The Balance
Now, Mkhize's juggling:
Chiefs assignments (Sipho, Thabo, and others in the GDL).
His brother's secret Sundowns shot.
Growing feelings for Naledi, who keeps reminding him he's more than just a scout.
Late at night, scrolling through the Chiefs WhatsApp group, his phone buzzes with another message this time from Naledi:
Naledi: "Don't forget to live your life, Mkhize. Football isn't everything."
He stares at her words, then at the Chiefs logo on his tracksuit lying on the chair. For the first time, he wonders: Can I really balance it all?