Ex-Super Eagles goalkeeper exits South Africa, joins Tanzanian giants as coach

Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Greg Etafia has completed a move to Tanzanian champions Young Africans as the club's new goalkeeper coach after ending a successful five-year spell with South African PSL side TS Galaxy, Soccernet.ng reports

The 43-year-old joins the East African giants as part of a major overhaul of the club's technical department under newly-appointed head coach Manqoba Mngqithi, who recently took charge following his departure from Mamelodi Sundowns.

Etafia's appointment represents another significant step in his coaching career after establishing himself as one of the respected goalkeeper trainers in South African football since hanging up his gloves.

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Super Eagles: Etafia reunites with Mngqithi at Young Africans

Young Africans have assembled an experienced backroom staff ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, with Etafia joining assistant coach Simo Dladla, set-piece specialist Kagisho Dikgacoi and performance analyst Yardaan Valodia.

Speaking after his appointment with the 27-time Tanzanian champions, the former Nigerian international admitted he was delighted to begin a new chapter in Tanzania.

“I'm so excited to join Young Africans. They are a top club,” Etafia said in an interview with Soccer Laduma.

“I'm grateful that the president gave me his blessings. I will give my best, and I'm just so excited.”

Before leaving South Africa, Etafia also paid tribute to TS Galaxy president Tim Sukazi and everyone associated with the club after spending five years with the Rockets.

“First of all, I'd like to thank TS Galaxy. I was with the club for five years, and the most important thing is to thank Mr Tim Sukazi, the president. He's a fantastic man and did a lot for me.

“I'm so grateful to him and his family. Thanks also to the whole TS Galaxy family. Everyone at the club are very, very good people.”

The former Lobi Stars goalkeeper will now hope to help Young Africans strengthen their ambitions domestically and on the continent, with the Tanzanian champions expected to compete for both the NBC Premier League title and the CAF Champions League under Mngqithi.

Etafia enjoyed a distinguished playing career in South Africa, representing clubs including Moroka Swallows and Highlands Park before transitioning into coaching.

He also earned international recognition with Nigeria, featuring for the Super Eagles four times during his playing days before establishing himself as a respected goalkeeper coach in the PSL.