Orlando Pirates are on the verge of unveiling their next defensive talent, with 19-year-old Mbekezeli Mbokazi making waves within the club’s ranks. Sources indicate that the highly-rated defender is inching closer to a first-team promotion after consistently impressive performances in the DStv Diski Challenge.
A Rising Star at Pirates
As captain of the Pirates’ DDC team, Mbokazi has garnered widespread admiration for his leadership and technical abilities. His calmness under pressure, combined with his tireless work ethic, has caught the eye of head coach Jose Riveiro, who has already welcomed the youngster into first-team training sessions.
Mbokazi’s left-footed precision and ability to execute both short and long-range passes make him stand out. His free-kick skills add another layer to his impressive game, showcasing his all-around talent.
Perfect Timing Amid Defensive Crisis
With Pirates currently grappling with an injury crisis in defense, the timing couldn’t be better for Mbokazi to potentially step up. The club recently suffered a significant setback with Thabiso Sesane out for an extended period, leaving a defensive void that Mbokazi may soon fill.
Inside sources believe Mbokazi could form a strong center-back pairing with Sesane once he recovers. His maturity and tactical understanding make him a promising candidate for promotion, following in the footsteps of other youth graduates such as Siyabonga Ndlozi and Mohau Nkota.
First-Team Call-Up on the Horizon
A source close to the club confirmed that Mbokazi’s hard work has not gone unnoticed, with a senior debut potentially just around the corner.
“Mbokazi is doing exceptionally well, and the coach has taken note of his progress. There’s no rush, but his talent and dedication will not be ignored. The head coach believes in rewarding hard work, especially with young players. His time is coming,” the insider revealed.
