Siyabonga Ngezana and FCSB to take on Manchester United Siyabonga Ngezana has become a key player for FCSB since moving to the Romanian champions from Kaizer Chiefs in 2023. Photo: Alex Nicodim/NurPhoto via AFP
Image: Alex Nicodim/NurPhoto via AFP
Manchester United will face Romanian giants FCSB in the Europa League on Thursday with both teams hoping to book their place in the round of 16.
At the heart of FCSB's defence is Bafana Bafana and former Kaizer Chiefs man Siyabonga Ngezana, whose performances for the club have turned heads over the last two seasons.
In his assessment of their rivals, United boss Ruben Amorim has taken note of Ngezana's ability at centre back.
"I know this FCSB team. I've studied it," the Portuguese tactician said in a press conference on Wednesday. "They play differently in Europe than in the championship. Sometimes they give up possession, with a fast striker in transition.
"There are two strong central defenders and full-backs who go up and down the whole match," said Amorim.
Since joining FCSB — formerly Steaua Bucharest — two years ago, Ngezana has become a key player for the Romanian side, and was ever-present as they romped to the 2023–24 Liga I title in impressive fashion.
It's a far cry from his days with Kaizer Chiefs, when he was constantly criticised by the club's very vocal fans.
Ngezana, who grew up supporting United, said last week he was looking forward to the encounter.
“For me, it’s a dream come true, playing against the team that I support. Manchester, if you can see like it’s rich in history, and just playing against them, I feel like for me, it’s a dream come true, because it’s a team that I grew up supporting in the EPL,” the defender said.
“So, I mean, I felt like everything, it’s coming together right now at this moment. And I can’t wait! I can’t wait, because every training session, every chance that I get it, every workout that I do, I always think about Manchester.”
With seven games played, Ngezana and FCSB could seal a place in the round of 16 in the Europa League should they pick up three points against the English giants.
Thursday evening's Europa League clash kicks off at 10pm.
IOL Sport