Former Bafana Bafana defender Ramahlwe Mphahlele has officially announced his retirement from professional football, bringing the curtain down on a career that spanned almost two decades.
Also see: SAFA set to unveil new Bafana Bafana head coach soon
The 36-year-old confirmed his decision during an appearance on Metro FM, saying he has decided to walk away from the game after 20 years and is no longer looking for another club.
Former Mamelodi Sundown’s, Kaizer Chiefs and Bafana Bafana defender Ramahlwe Mphahlele officially calls time on his long career on #SportsNightAmplified with @andileNcube.
What memories do you have of Ramahlwe Mphahlele?#SNAWA pic.twitter.com/01aVASKNKg
— METROFM SABC (@METROFMSA) August 13, 2026
A look back at Ramahlwe Mphahlele’s career
Mphahlele began his professional career with Moroka Swallows in 2007 before joining Mamelodi Sundowns in 2011. He briefly spent time on loan at the University of Pretoria before returning to Sundowns, where he established himself as an important member of the squad and later served as captain.
His performances at Sundowns earned him a move to Kaizer Chiefs in 2016, where he spent six seasons. He subsequently joined AmaZulu, continuing his career in the Premier Soccer League. His final playing chapter came with Orbit College, according to reports following his retirement announcement.
Ramahlwe Mphahlele’s mother Ramatsobane Moshopiadi Mphahlele farewell message to Rama on his retirement, his children (Ofentse and Reitumetsi) also sent their farewell messages.#SNAWA pic.twitter.com/DCedi6rvH4
— METROFM SABC (@METROFMSA) August 13, 2026
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Bafana Bafana career
Mphahlele also represented South Africa at an international level. He made his Bafana Bafana debut in 2016 and went on to earn 21 international caps and score one goal during his national team career.
He was part of several Bafana squads during the late 2010s, including the team selected for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. His versatility and experience made him a regular option in South Africa’s defence during that period.
Mphahlele leaves professional football having made 413 top-flight appearances, scored 10 goals and provided 19 assists.
With his decision not to seek another playing contract, Mphahlele now closes a significant chapter of his football career after 20 years in the professional game.
Also see: How Pitso Mosimane transformed since his last Bafana Bafana job
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