Former Sundowns Defender Vuyo Mere Joins Consumer Credit Law as Junior Consultant

Bafana Bafana defender Olwethu Makhanya has spoken about scoring his first goal for Rangers in the Scottish Premiership, but admitted that he could not fully enjoy the achievement after his team dropped points against Hearts.

Makhanya scored late on Wednesday evening to help Rangers secure a 2-2 draw against Hearts. His goal rescued a point for his team and marked an important personal milestone since joining the Scottish club.

However, the South African defender made it clear that the result was more important to him than scoring his maiden goal. Despite finding the back of the net, Makhanya was disappointed with the overall performance and felt Rangers should have done much better.

Speaking to Rangers TV after the match, the defender explained that he was happy to score his first goal but could not celebrate the achievement in the way he had hoped because the team failed to collect all three points.

“Honestly, I don’t even feel like I scored a goal,” Makhanya said.

“But I’m happy, I feel like since I got my first, there will be more coming. So, that’s the only positive I can take from the game.”

Makhanya also reflected on the team’s performance, admitting that Rangers did not show the quality expected of them. He believes the players must accept the disappointment, learn from the experience and focus on their next fixture.

“I think the whole performance tonight [Wednesday] was really disappointing, we are a better team than what we showed today,” he added.

“It’s one of those games that we have to just move forward and focus on the next one.

“We expected it that it was going to be difficult cause they are a difficult opponent to play especially at home. We just had to show more character.”

Although scoring his first goal is an important moment in Makhanya’s career, the defender will now be hoping to build on that achievement and contribute more towards Rangers’ results. His late goal showed that he can make an impact in important moments, but he will understand that consistency and team performances remain the priority.

Meanwhile, former Mamelodi Sundowns and Platinum Stars defender Vuyo Mere has now swapped football for legal consultancy. The 42-year-old, who holds several PSL records, has joined Consumer Credit Law (CCL) as a junior consultant. Mere retired from professional football in 2024 and briefly pursued a coaching career with TS Galaxy before changing direction. He now works alongside consumer credit specialists, helping South Africans protect their homes, vehicles and credit records. Mere’s move shows how former players can build successful new careers outside the game, even after finally hanging up their boots.

Mere’s career change highlights the opportunities available to former footballers after retirement. While some remain involved in football through coaching and management, others choose to use their experience to establish themselves in different industries.

For Makhanya, the immediate challenge is to help Rangers improve their performances and collect more points. His first goal will hopefully be the beginning of many more, but the Bafana Bafana defender will know that helping his team achieve better results is what matters most.

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