Thibang Phete. PHOTO: Getty Images
With South African star Thibang Phete having gone under the radar, here’s a brief look at what the Iceland-based player has been up to.
The story
Phete’s playing career has been almost entirely overseas, with his last stint in South Africa dating back to 2014 with Milano United.
READ: Stellies announce a major reunion ahead of big Pirates clash
Now aged 32, he currently plays in Iceland with second-tier side IF Vestri, who were relegated at the end of the 2025 season.
Earlier last year, he won the Icelandic Cup — the only trophy of his career so far.
Phete has now begun his 2026 campaign, with the league typically starting in April in Iceland due to the country’s cold climate.
Iceland is known for its harsh winter weather; therefore, its football season usually runs from April to October.
Interestingly, although Phete is a defensive and central midfielder, he has featured regularly as a centre-back since joining Vestri.
His contract with the club is set to expire in December 2026.
Read: Did You Know: Nkota not the only South African at Ettifaq
Related tags