Kaizer Chiefs academy graduate Aden McCarthy delivered a commanding performance on Sunday evening, earning the Man of the Match accolade in the club’s hard-fought victory over Stellenbosch FC.
The 21-year-old centre-back was instrumental in keeping the hosts at bay, showcasing maturity beyond his years with crucial tackles, blocks, and aerial dominance at a packed Athlone Stadium.
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Following the 2-0 win, McCarthy dedicated his award to head coach Nasreddine Nabi, who was notably absent from the touchline due to a personal tragedy. Nabi had flown to Tunisia on Friday after his wife was involved in a serious accident.
“Honestly, I don’t have any words. I don’t think I have a voice right now, but all glory to God,” McCarthy told SuperSport TV after the game.
“This one is for my family – my mother, my father, my brother – and most importantly for coach Nabi. He couldn’t be here with us today.”
McCarthy, who previously captained Chiefs’ DDC team, is following in the footsteps of his father, Fabian McCarthy, a former Chiefs and Bafana Bafana centre-back.
“I think it’s all about God’s timing. I’ve been with the first team for a while, but God knew the right moment for me to step up was now,” he added.
“My father is proud, and I am too, but only God knows how hard I’ve worked for this opportunity.”
For McCarthy, the performance was not just a personal milestone but also a statement of readiness as Chiefs aim for a strong start to their new campaign.
Chiefs sealed the win with a stunning free kick from Nkosingiphile Ngcobo and a composed penalty by Glody Makabi Lilepo, capitalizing on Stellies being reduced to ten men.
The victory not only marked a strong start to the campaign but also highlighted the emotional unity within the squad during a difficult moment for their coach.
McCarthy and his Kaizer Chiefs teammates will now look to build on this momentum when they face Polokwane City at FNB Stadium. Kick off is set for 19h30 on Wednesday, 12 August 2025.