#aTypicalInterview: Kenny Niemach on the Kylian Mbappe vs Erling Haaland debate

Kenny Niemach. Picture by Leon Muller.

Kenny Niemach. Picture by Leon Muller.

Published Apr 18, 2021

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In this week’s A-typical interview we feature former South African footballer Kenny Niemach.

The former striker, who was born in the Netherlands, made a name for himself in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), playing for giants Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns.

He was a member of Chiefs' 'Operation Vat Alles' squad of 2001/02.

He started his football career in Durban with D'Alberton Callies and also had a spell with Moroka Swallows and Manning Rangers.

Niemach has also been a TV presenter, football analyst, football commentator, professional football coach and radio personality.

Kylian Mbappe or Erling Haaland. Who’s better?

Both strikers are fantastic in their respective personalities. Erling is big and strong with a world class strike rate, he links up as a target man well. Mbappe is a striker more involved in the team as far as build up and creating for others his strike rate is impressive but not as good as Haaland. Mbappe is the player I would choose though because he does have a bit of X Factor that is necessary for a top striker.

The toughest opponent you ever faced during your time as a footballer was… ?

There was once a centre half, don't remember his full name. His first name was Gordan. He was big and strong, he played for Wits. The guy was on me like a rash. I absolutely could not move as soon as I touched the ball he would take me and the ball out.

22/12/2001. Kaizer Chiefs vs Moroko Swallows. Ellis Park, Johannesburg. Swallows Gary McNab beats Kenny Niemach in a heading duel.

If you had the choice of being coached either by Pep Guardiola, Jurgen Klopp, or Thomas Tuchel, who would you choose?

I would choose Klopp, because I am a massive Liverpool fan and the fact that just like Pep, always deploys a false nine, so it would have suited my style quite well.

You’re asked to select a dream five a side team from past and present players. Who features in your team?

Myself, Roger Feutmba , Eric Ramasike, Alex Bapela, Joas Magalego.

What are the three most popular items in your fridge at the moment?

Meat, cheese, and yoghurt.

Picture by Gavin Barker from Touchline Photo.

As a former Kaizer Chiefs player can you describe how fierce your rivalry was with Orlando Pirates?

It’s a religious experience for many of the fans from both these clubs.I really was very lucky to have played in these derbies and scored as well. It’s a game that can make or break you as a coach or a player.

Swallows striker Kenny Niemach, left, and Ajax defender David Kannemeyer in a race for possession.

The football team you most love watching these days is… ?

I love Liverpool. Win, lose or draw, they will always have you at the edge of your seat. Whether you’re ready to celebrate or smash the TV in disappointment, Liverpool grows on you.

You can only do one exercise for the rest of your life. What exercise do you choose to do?

Walking definitely.

Your favourite cheat meal during your time as a footballer was… ?

It had to be roast chicken with salad.

If there was one thing you could do to help out Bafana Bafana, what would it be?

The Bafana solution is not one particular thing, it's a myriad of problems that stem from lack of identity, and lack of development. Also the best players are not always at the biggest clubs.

The Saturday Star

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