Olwethu Makhanya's Rise: From Stellenbosch To Taking On Lionel Messi In Mls

Former Stellenbosch FC defender Olwethu Makhanya has announced himself on the big stage in the most unconventional way.

Earlier this week, a video of Philadelphia Unions Makhanya roughing up global football superstar Lionel Messi during a Major League Soccer game against Inter Miami did the rounds on social media.

Makhanya has been slowly making a name for himself in the United States ever since completing his big move from Stellenbosch FC at the end of the 2022/23 season. In America, where he arrived still a teenager, he quietly went about his business and became a key player for reserve team Philadelphia Union II.

However, during the 2025 campaign, hes been getting a few runs in the first team. And he hasnt disappointed when given the chance. One thing that has helped Makhanya earn his stripes is the presence of head coach Bradley Carnell, a former Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana star who has been working in the US since 2017.

Last month, Makhanya opened up about how Carnell has helped him at the club.