Former University of Pretoria head coach Kwanele Kopo has revealed how he helped revive Orlando Pirates forward Oswin Appollis’ football career after the talented attacker considered walking away from the game.

Appollis has established himself as an important player in South African football, but his journey to the top was not always easy. Before becoming a regular name among the country’s top attacking talents, he experienced a difficult period that nearly brought his professional career to an end.

Kopo played an important role in identifying Appollis while he was still part of the youth structures at Ajax Cape Town. The coach was working at SuperSport United when the club scouted the youngster and brought him into its academy.

According to Kopo, Appollis possessed the talent and qualities needed to succeed at the highest level. The club believed he fitted its vision of developing young players, and he eventually earned promotion to the first team.

However, his progress was interrupted when changes in the technical team brought a different playing style. Appollis was eventually deemed surplus to requirements and released by SuperSport United, a decision Kopo described as disappointing.

After leaving the club, Appollis struggled to find another opportunity and spent more than 18 months away from professional football. When Kopo joined Pretoria Callies, he immediately thought about bringing the attacker back into the game.

The coach revealed that Appollis initially refused to return, telling him that he was finished with football. Kopo continued calling him for weeks and eventually contacted his mother in an effort to convince him to reconsider.

He promised the youngster one season at Pretoria Callies, explaining that the main objective was to help him return to professional football rather than make a lot of money. Appollis eventually accepted the opportunity, and the decision proved to be a turning point in his career.

His performances later attracted greater attention, eventually helping him secure a move to Orlando Pirates, where he has continued to demonstrate his attacking ability.

Orlando Pirates forward Oswin Appollis has revealed why his proposed move to FC Porto collapsed last season. The Portuguese giants showed interest in the player, but the deal fell through after they failed to meet Pirates' asking price. Appollis insists the matter is now behind him. "Right now I'm focusing on winning trophies with Orlando Pirates," he said. The forward added that he remains open to future opportunities, saying he might still receive offers from other European clubs one day.

The failed transfer has not stopped Appollis from concentrating on his responsibilities at Pirates. His immediate priority remains helping the Soweto giants compete for trophies, while maintaining the form that has made him an important option for the club and Bafana Bafana.

Appollis has also impressed at international level, contributing to South Africa’s attacking performances. His development is an example of how a second chance can change a player's career, especially when a coach is willing to invest time and effort in helping a talented footballer recover from disappointment.

Kopo’s decision to pursue Appollis despite his initial reluctance ultimately gave the forward another opportunity to prove himself. With Pirates competing for silverware and the possibility of future interest from European clubs, Appollis will be hoping to continue building on the progress he has made.

His story also highlights the importance of patience, determination and support in professional football, where setbacks do not necessarily mean the end of a player's ambitions.

Source: IDiskiTimes