The All Stars, to be led by Golden Arrows coach Manqoba Mngqithi, will feature a starting XI heavily influenced by supporters’ votes, with Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns emerging as the most represented clubs.
Mngqithi steps into the role previously held by Orlando Pirates’ Jose Riveiro, who guided last year’s All Stars team to victory.
This year, four Chiefs players – young star Mfundo Vilakazi, goalkeeper Brandon Petersen, defender Naledi Hlongwane, and midfielder Thulani Mabaso – have been included in the line-up, a selection Sheppard believes reflects the club’s strong development pathway and the players’ growing popularity among fans.
Sheppard, who has played an instrumental role in nurturing talent within Chiefs’ youth structures, expressed pride in seeing the young players he has mentored earn the opportunity to perform on such a prominent stage.
He views the fixture as an invaluable platform for rising prospects to demonstrate the attributes that have earned them admiration both inside and outside the club.
At the same time, Sheppard acknowledged the challenges that come with transitioning from the reserve ranks to senior football, particularly around mental resilience.
“This is a great opportunity for the boys to showcase themselves,” said Sheppard.
“Mfundo has already scored in this tournament. If you look back at Naledi (Hlongwane), he had only one goal in six months, and after scoring two goals in the Carling, he went on to score 13 in three months.
“It’s a chance for them to show their quality against our archrivals. When opportunities like this come, it’s up to them to take them and demonstrate their abilities. Hopefully, it will open doors for more players to break into the first team.
“They have to compete against the players already there. They’re going up against top professionals with huge experience. For young players, timing is everything. When the opportunity comes, it’s about how prepared you are.
“I always tell the players: when you train with the first team, come back, show a good attitude and keep performing. When your chance arrives, it’s not just about being physically ready, but mentally ready. The pressure of playing for Chiefs is immense, and if you get an opportunity, you have to take it.”