Emile Witbooi has racked up an eye-catching list of achievements in 2025
Emile Witbooi has racked up an eye-catching list of achievements in 2025.
Back in March, the South African starlet became the youngest player in the history of Cape Town City, making his senior debut aged 16 years, six months and two days. By doing so, he followed in the footsteps of his father, Surprise Ralani, who represented the club with distinction between 2018 and 2022.
In September, the now 17-year-old became the team’s club’s youngest-ever goalscorer when he netted with an impudent chipped finish against Kruger United.
At international level, meanwhile, Witbooi was a key figure as South Africa qualified for the FIFA U-17 World Cup™ for the first time since 2015. His winning goal in a CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations group-stage showdown with Egypt ultimately proved pivotal in booking their ticket to Qatar 2025.
This exciting teenage talent is now primed and ready to make his mark on the global stage. South Africa will kick off their U-17 World Cup campaign on Monday when they take on Bolivia in Group A. They will also face hosts Qatar and European powerhouses Italy in a fascinating section.
In conversation with FIFA, Witbooi opened up on his confidence Bafana Bafana can compete at the highest level, drawing inspiration from his father and his desire to cap a dream year with success in the Middle East.
FIFA: Emile, you have had a remarkable year for Cape Town City. What have the main reasons been for your progress?
I’ve enjoyed my time at the club. I think what pushes me a lot is the people around me. They love me a lot. They want to see me go forward and progress. That’s why I’ve been growing as you can see here. The coaches have helped me to improve a lot with the intensity. They work hard with me so that I can run more in games, to match the intensity (of the more experienced players). I have to thank them a lot.
Your father also played for the club, what does it mean to follow in his footsteps?
It’s a big gap [to his legacy] that I must fill. That’s why I’ve been pushing so hard so I can do that. I’m trying my best to do what I can do. He’s a big inspiration to me.
Your father still plays in the National First Division for Hungry Lions and is also an attacking player. What is the difference between your style of play and his?
I think we’re similar, you know! But, yeah, I’m better! (laughs)
How would you describe your main qualities?
One of my main qualities is that I can see things that some people can’t see. I think people can’t take the ball away from me easily. I can also make runs in behind, I can come short. That’s me.
Are there any parts of your game you would like to improve?
I can improve a lot more off the ball. The game has moved on. Especially now, playing with the first team, I have to work more off the ball, defend and help the team.
The U-17 World Cup is almost upon us. How much are you looking forward to playing at the tournament?
It will be a big experience. It will show us the level that we want to play at. It will be a good experience going forward. Personally, I just want to play my football and help the team win. If my team wins, then I’m happy.
What gives you confidence South Africa can have a successful campaign?
I trust my team-mates. I play with a lot of talented players and it’s a special group. We’ll just go out there and show the people what we are made of.
