Cape Town City’s rising star, Emile Witbooi, etched his name into South African football history by becoming the ninth youngest player to debut in the PSL.
At just 16 years, 6 months, and 3 days old, Witbooi made his first-team bow during a 2-0 defeat to AmaZulu FC on Sunday, coming on in the 68th minute.
The young midfielder’s journey has been rapid. After joining Cape Town City’s academy in January 2024, he impressed in the DSTV Diski Challenge, earning a first-team promotion at the start of the 2024/25 Betway Premiership season.
Before his debut, he was included in three matchday squads, featuring against Royal AM, Chippa United, and Orlando Pirates.
Witbooi has already attracted significant attention. At just 15, he was called up to South Africa’s U17 side, and later, he played a key role in the U20 team’s COSAFA Cup triumph in October.
His performances even secured him a month-long trial with Chelsea FC, before returning to Cape Town in December.
Football runs in Witbooi’s blood – his father, Bradley ‘Surprise’ Ralani, had a successful career in Sweden before starring for Mamelodi Sundowns and Cape Town City.