South Africa sensation Emile Witbooi has lit up the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025™. The playmaker has played two games, scored in both, and has shown why he is one of the nation’s hottest prospects.
FIFA caught up with the Bafana Bafana No10 for our ‘Get to Know’ series, in which he discussed his football inspirations, most cherished memories, favourite hobbies and more!
Messi, for sure. I love him because he’s done things that you’ve never seen before. He’s done crazy things with the ball! In my eyes, he’s the best.
My dad.
I like to play on the PlayStation.
Ah, I don’t think I have one! I’m just thinking about football. It’s football, football, football!
In Europe, I watch a lot of Jamal Musiala. He’s a similar player as me, you know. I like how he plays when he’s close to the box, it’s crazy!
I’m not a huge eater, but I like pizza a lot.
I think they’d say I was funny. I’m a people person. I like to be around people.
It means the world to me, for sure. Growing up, coming out of the dusty streets of Kimberley to play at this level, it shows the people back home that nothing is impossible.
