Issue #1 changed that. For the first time, a comic showed black and brown heroes as tactical geniuses, not sidekicks. The dialogue used local slang—"Eish!" "Yebo!" "Ayyy!"—making readers feel seen. Furthermore, the comic cleverly wove in moral lessons: Don't cheat. Share the ball. Respect your coach.
Reviewers from DeviantArt highlight that the early stories set a standard for direct, engaging storytelling with minimal filler. This first issue launched a series that eventually reached a monthly circulation of across 16 countries. supa strikas comic issue 1
Shakes, a young, talented striker from Soweto, determined to follow in the footsteps of his father, Jomo. Issue #1 changed that
While Issue #1 centers on Shakes, it introduces a core cast that remains consistent in position and personality throughout the franchise: Young, talented, and occasionally rash Dancing Rasta Midfielder/Captain Calm, motivational leader Big Bo Goalkeeper Loyal "gentle giant" and vice-captain Skarra Rival Striker Shakes' high-school-friend-turned-enemy Reviewer Verdict Furthermore, the comic cleverly wove in moral lessons:
The first issue of the comic, published in South Africa in 2000, marked the beginning of what would become one of the world's most widely distributed sports comics. Originally inspired by the British comic Roy of the Rovers , Issue #1 introduced readers to Shakes Mokena and established the high-stakes, fast-paced world of the Super League. Comic Overview and Legacy
But none of that matters. What matters is the raw, untamed energy. It feels like a group of friends who loved Dragon Ball Z and Ole! magazine decided to create their own universe. That DIY, heartfelt passion radiates off every page.
If you cannot afford a physical copy of the original Issue #1, do not despair. In 2018, as part of a major digital push (including the Netflix animated series Supa Strikas ), the publishers released a fully remastered digital version of Issue #1.