Olwethu Makhanya is about to experience one of the biggest occasions in Scottish football.
The Bafana Bafana centre-back is expected to feature for Rangers when they travel across Glasgow to face Celtic in the latest edition of the fiercely contested Old Firm Derby on Sunday, 20 September.
Kick-off is scheduled for 13:00 South African time, with Makhanya preparing for his first taste of the famous rivalry in a Scottish Premiership fixture.
Makhanya ready for the Old Firm test
The 22-year-old defender has quickly established himself as an important part of the Rangers setup since arriving from Philadelphia Union in July.
Makhanya has featured in five of Rangers’ first six league matches this season, highlighting the trust he has earned early in his Scottish adventure.
He has already experienced a taste of the Old Firm atmosphere.
Rangers faced Celtic in the Scottish League Cup just a week earlier, with Makhanya starting the match as his side secured a convincing 3-0 victory.
The league meeting, however, promises a completely different atmosphere as Makhanya prepares to experience the rivalry in a Premiership setting for the first time.
The young South African has quickly become a popular figure among Rangers supporters, with his performances attracting attention both in Scotland and back home.
A major test for Bafana’s rising defender
The Old Firm encounter represents another significant step in Makhanya’s development.
Playing in one of European football’s most intense rivalries will provide the defender with valuable experience as he continues to establish himself at club level.
His progress will also be closely followed by Bafana Bafana supporters.
New South Africa coach Pitso Mosimane has included Makhanya in his plans, with the defender expected to feature in the squad’s upcoming AFCON qualification campaign.
Bafana face Guinea on Saturday, 26 September, and Makhanya is among the players expected to feature in Mosimane’s first starting XI.
Expected Bafana XI vs Guinea
Williams; Sebelebele, Makhanya, Okon, Modiba; Sithole, Mokoena; Appollis, Mofokeng, Maseko; Rayners.
For now, though, Makhanya’s attention will be firmly on Glasgow.
A strong performance against Celtic would give the young defender another opportunity to demonstrate why he is being viewed as an important prospect for both Rangers and South Africa.
How would you rate Makhanya’s performances since joining Rangers?
