Does Showboating Win Trophies? The Cost of Flair in South African Football Since The 1950s
Kasi flavour Thabo Rakhale From the dusty township grounds of the 1950s, eKasi to the modern Betway Premiership, one thing has defined South African football: flair. The tsamaya, the shibobo, the showboating. It is in our DNA. It brings fans to their feet and makes local football unique. But after more than 70 years of flair, a hard question must be asked: What are the actual benefits of showboating beyond harassing opponents and losing in major tournaments? The Real Benefits Of Showboating To be fair, showboating does have value when used correctly: 1. Fan Entertainment: It is what fills stadiums. A well-executed shibobo is what fans pay to see. 2. Psychological Edge : It can boost a player's confidence and intimidate a defender. 3. Player Branding: Flair players get noticed. It helps young players attract scouts and build a name quickly. The Other Side: When Flair Becomes A Flaw The problem begins when flair is used without end product. At international level, where effici...