Tashreeq Matthews, affectionately known as “Tassie,” recently marked a significant milestone in his football career as he made his debut for Mamelodi Sundowns. The 23-year-old midfielder, who joined the South African powerhouse from Swedish side IK Sirius, stepped onto the field for his first taste of senior football in his home country, a momentous occasion for the young talent.
Hailing from Hannover Park, a neighborhood plagued by gang activity in the Cape Flats, Matthews defied the odds to pursue his passion for football. Despite the challenges of his environment, Hannover Park has produced some of the nation’s finest footballers, including the legendary Benni McCarthy, providing inspiration and hope for aspiring athletes like Matthews.
Matthews’s journey to professional football began at the age of 17 when he was promoted to Ajax Cape Town senior team (now Cape Town Spurs) . His standout performances further propelled him onto the international stage, earning him a spot in the team of the tournament at the prestigious ICGT tournament in the Netherlands. This early success laid the foundation for his subsequent move to European giants Borussia Dortmund.
However, Matthews faced hurdles in establishing himself at Dortmund and was subsequently loaned to various clubs, including FC Utrecht and Helsingborg, before finding stability at Varberg Bois. Despite the challenges, his resilience and talent shone through, earning him a reputation as a promising midfielder with immense potential.
His journey came full circle when he donned the jersey of Mamelodi Sundowns, one of the most successful clubs in South African football history. Making his debut in the last 32 of the Nedbank Cup against La Masia, Matthews showcased glimpses of his capabilities during his brief cameo on the pitch. His performance hinted at the promise of more to come, as he looks set to make his mark on the local football scene.
In his debut match, Matthews crossed paths with familiar faces from his past, including former teammates Shane Saralina and Kiyaam Bull from Ajax Cape Town, as well as Moegamat May, with whom he shared roots at Hannover Park FC. The goal scorer, Fuad Johnson, also has a past with the 23 year old, he played for Old Mutual Academy and they had many meetings at amateur level, adding another layer of connection to Matthews’s journey.
As Matthews continues his footballing journey, his story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and determination in overcoming adversity. From the streets of Hannover Park to the hallowed grounds of Mamelodi Sundowns, his rise exemplifies the transformative potential of sport in shaping lives and inspiring communities. With his talent and tenacity, Tashreeq Matthews is poised to carve out a legacy of his own in the beautiful game.
