A Mamelodi Sundowns teenager has been named among the 60 best young players not only in Africa, but in the whole world.
At the tender age of just 17, Siyabonga Mabena has already recorded 18 senior appearances for the Brazilians and caught more than just the eyes of those in South Africa.
Read: Foster's boss reacts to Bafana star's latest setback
British newspaper The Guardian has released its list, which comes out once year, of starlets it considers to be among the most talented players born in the year 2007.
The latest selection features several young stars from across the globe, including Manchester United's James Overy and Chido Obi-Martin, as well as FC Barcelona stars Marc Bernal, Pau Cubarsi and Lamine Yamal.
Mabena's inclusion in the list is an indication of his abilities and the expectations to develop into a high-level player that now rests on his shoulders.
The teenager has made one senior appearance so far this season, coming off the bench during Sundowns' 4-0 thumping of Mbabane Swallows in the second leg of their CAF Champions League preliminary round clash.
The young attacker is regarded as an asset for his club and looks likely to receive more minutes under Manqoba Mngqithi as the season progresses.
Judging by the list put together by the British publication, the future of African football looks bright as Mabena was not the only player from the continent to be included.
Enyimba FC prospect Daniel Daga and Esperance de Tunis forward Koussay Maacha were also named among the best teenage stars on the planet.
Read: Barcelona set for shock move for unwanted Chelsea star?
You can see The Guardian's full list here.
Next Generation 2024: 60 of the best young talents in world football by The Guardian. ??Follow the thread. ?????? Marvin Akahomen (17, CB) - FC Basel.???? Alfonso Montero (17, CB) - Juventus FC.???? Andrija Maksimovic (17, AM) - Red Star.???? Andrés Dávila (17, CF) - Independiente… pic.twitter.com/xtV1y5swMR
— Pro Future Stars (@ProFutureStars1) October 17, 2024