Latest news with #Mbokazi
The South African
5 days ago
- Sport
- The South African
Orlando Pirates coach on why he gave Mbokazi the captain's armband
Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has given his reason on why Mbekezeli Mbokazi was handed the captain's armband during the Buccaneers' pre-season friendly against Pafos FC on Sunday morning. With regular club captain Nkosinathi Sibisi subbed off, the player known as 'TLB' took over as captain for the first time. The 19-year-old made his debut just a few months ago but is already regarded as one of the best players in the Orlando Pirates squad. Ouaddou said the club was trying to give more resposibility to the 19-year-old. 'Mbokazi is one of the big men of this team, he's South African and he is proud of what he's doing,' Ouaddou said on SuperSport TV . 'He's someone we believe that he's a captain, and we're taking it step by step. We want to give him more game time because he will be one of the main men for us this season. 'So we're trying to give him that responsibility, and he was fantastic, he had a great match, and he needs to continue like this,' the Pirates coach said. Should Mbokazi wear the armband in an official match, he could be the youngest Orlando Pirates captain ever. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
IOL News
5 days ago
- Sport
- IOL News
Pirates coach earmarks teenager Mbekezeli Mbokazi as 'one of the main men' for 2025/26 season
Orlando Pirates teenager Mbekezeli Mbokazi has named Club Captain for the 2025/26 season. Photo: BackpagePix Image: BackpagePix In an audacious move, Orlando Pirates' head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou handed young defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi the captain's armband in the second half of the team's second pre-season friendly against Cypriot champions Pafos FC on Sunday. Nkosinathi Sibisi started the match as Pirates' captain. However, after he was substituted in the second half, the 19-year-old Mbokazi captained the team despite only making his debut in the senior team a few months ago. With the surprising decision, it became clear that the Moroccan Ouaddou aims to mould Mbokazi into a future leader. Mbokazi's extraordinary performances in training and previous matches, signal a shift towards nurturing young talent within the squad. Mbokazi has shown remarkable skill and maturity on the pitch. They were the key factors in Ouaddou's decision to elevate him to this critical role. Speaking after the 1-1 draw against Pafos FC, Ouaddou lauded Mbokazi as one of the "big men" of the team. "He's South African; he's proud of what he's doing, and we're proud of him. He had a good game," he remarked. This decision to assign captaincy to the 19-year-old signals the team's direction and trust in this prodigious talent as they prepare for the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season. On their pre-season tour in Marbella, Spain, Pirates are aiming to build team cohesion and enhance their competitiveness. Mbokazi had established himself as a central figure in Pirates under former coach Jose Riveiro, making 19 appearances last season. Ouaddou indicated that giving Mbokazi the captaincy is a step towards integrating him even more deeply into the team's fabric. "We want to give him more time because he will be one of the main men for us this season," he added. The match against Pafos FC was critical in terms of applying lessons from their earlier 2-0 defeat to English club Bolton Wanderers. Despite the mixed results, Ouaddou was content with the team's evolving understanding of his tactics. "We decided to play very high to prevent this team from building. It worked, I'm happy about the plan," he noted, expressing optimism about the team's progress. Ouaddou emphasised the importance of matching their performance expectations with the reality of results. "You know sometimes as coaches, we have to analyse even when you lose the game. We cannot just react as a fan," he cautioned, underlining the introspective approach planned for the pre-season. Looking ahead, Pirates will face Spanish second-tier side Las Palmas on Thursday, a fixture that promises to challenge their growing tactical prowess. With the foundation laid by skilled young players like Mbokazi, the Pirates are set on a trajectory that holds much promise for the upcoming season.
IOL News
15-06-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
South Africa's Youth Day spotlight shines on Bafana Bafana's emerging stars
DUBBED the Cocomelons and one of them as the President of the Year 2000s, Relebohile Mofokeng and Mohau Ntoka are among the youngsters lighting up the local football scene. | BackpagePix As South Africa commemorates Youth Day on 16 June, a wave of youthful talent has emerged in the nation's football landscape. These young players are not just taking the pitch by storm, but also igniting hopes for Bafana Bafana as they prepare for pivotal tournaments such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) later this year in December. This Youth Day, we highlight the promising prospects that South Africa has to offer. These young athletes showcase not only their skill on the ball but also a commitment to uplift the national team to new heights. The infusion of fresh talent into Bafana Bafana is indeed a reason for optimism for the team's future successes on the international stage. Among the talented youths making waves, we spotlight a few key players whose performances are turning heads and capturing the imagination of supporters and selectors. 1 Mbekezeli Mbokazi (19 years, Orlando Pirates) At just 19 years old, Mbokazi has swiftly made his mark in South African football, gaining recognition as a leading contender for the left centre-back position in Bafana Bafana. National team coach Hugo Broos had long expressed the urgent need for a left-footed centre-back, and in Mbokazi, he may have found just the answer. During a recent match against Mozambique, he made his national debut, showcasing an impressive understanding of the game that belied his youth. Alongside club teammate Nkosinathi Sibisi, Mbokazi's performance in the rearguard was outstanding. His ascent was not merely about opportunity; his innate talent and potential were evident as he demonstrated solid defensive skills, comfort on the ball, and the ability to be a significant threat during set pieces. Despite not being the tallest of defenders, Mbokazi's aerial prowess often defies expectations, illustrating how skill and determination can triumph over physical limitations on the pitch. The young talent was a revelation upon joining the Orlando Pirates first team last season. 2 Luke le Roux (25 years, Värnamo, Sweden) Injuries have limited his appearances for Bafana Bafana recently. However, this Sweden-based tenacious midfielder has showcased his technical skills, positioning him as an invaluable asset for Bafana Bafana as they prepare for crucial World Cup qualifiers. Known as a 'box-to-box' midfielder, he is blessed with a rare blend of physical strength, stamina, and an unyielding work ethic. His ability to seamlessly transition between defensive duties and offensive thrusts has shaped the dynamics of his club, Varnamo. This kind of versatility is important on the international stage. In the two friendlies, Le Roux showed exceptional ball control, and in the midfield, he kept the squad positioned to take the offensive while remaining organised defensively. His impressive aerial skills enable him to excel in duels, augmenting both defence and attack capabilities. Every touch of the ball demonstrates his tactical intelligence, making intelligent decisions that shift the momentum during tight encounters. 3 Sinoxolo Kwayiba (25 years, Chippa United) In the recent friendly against Mozambique, Kwayiba demonstrated his burgeoning talent and will be in the conversation ahead of Bafana Bafana's upcoming fixtures. In the 2024 COSAFA Cup in Port Elizabeth, Kwayiba made his Bafana Bafana debut and marked the occasion with a goal that dazzled fans and critics alike. From the opening whistle, Kwayiba's energy was infectious. His lively footwork and keen sense of positioning constantly tested the Mozambique goalkeeper, who faced a barrage of shots from the South African. Kwayiba's journey with the national team and his impending move to one of South Africa's most storied clubs presents a significant opportunity for growth. His performance in the friendly could act as a springboard, allowing him to harness the skills he exhibited against Mozambique and refine them further in the competitive Premier Soccer League. As he gears up to join the ranks of Orlando Pirates next season, Kwayiba stands out as a promising asset who, while he may currently serve as a valuable option off the bench, has the potential to become a defining player as he gains experience and matures in his game. 4 Mohau Nkota (20 years, Orlando Pirates) Few young players have captured the attention of South African fans quite like Mohau Nkota. Known for his electrifying speed, technical prowess, and powerful left foot, the Pirates winger has swiftly begun carving a niche for himself in professional football. Nkota's ability was apparent from an early age. Rising through the ranks of Pirates' youth system, his impressive performances in the Diski Challenge showcased his potential, leading to his promotion to the first team. It is here that he began to make strides, flashing glimpses of brilliance with his pace and dribbling ability, drawing comparisons with some of the nation's best wingers. Nkota has demonstrated a knack for converting chances into goals, contributing not just with crucial goals but also with assists for his teammates, thereby influencing the game's outcome as a crucial playmaker. 5 Relebohile Mofokeng (20 years, Orlando Pirates) Mofokeng stands out as the brightest star on the national football horizon. Playing as a winger for Pirates, Mofokeng has captured the attention of fans and scouts alike with his impressive skills and remarkable speed. With an innate ability, he stands out as a forward who not only boasts strong ball control but also has the agility to leave defenders in his wake. Mofokeng's agility is complemented by his pace, which he uses to work his way past defenders. This helps to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. What sets Mofokeng apart, however, is intelligent off-the-ball movement. He understands how to position himself strategically, often finding spaces that others overlook, making him a constant threat even when the ball is not at his feet. He is a true competitor at heart; he is not afraid to take risks. Whether it's attempting a daring dribble or playing a central role when necessary, his confidence showcases a maturity beyond his years. He readily adapts wherever the coach needs him, whether on the left or right wing, reinforcing his commitment to the team's success.
IOL News
11-06-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
Teen sensation Mbekezeli Mbokazi impresses on Bafana Bafana debut
One for the future! Orlando Pirates' Mbekezeli Mbokazi impressed on his international debut for Bafana Bafana when they took on Mozambique in Polokwane on Tuesday night. Photo: Alche Greeff/BackpagePix Image: Alche Greeff/BackpagePix On Tuesday evening, South Africans witnessed the first steps in international football of a player who could go on to become the greatest defender this country has ever produced. Bafana Bafana beat Mozambique 2-0 after an assured performance at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane. At the heart of the home team's defence was one Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who did not put a foot wrong despite playing international football for the very first time. Mbokazi is just 19 years old, but his performance at the back was that of a seasoned veteran. He was always in the right place at the right time and knew what to do when he had the ball at his feet – attributes that are rare to find in a player so young. Following Tuesday's debut, Aaron Mokoena, the only man to play over 100 times for Bafana Bafana, was impressed with Mbokazi, a player he once coached at junior level, and praised Hugo Broos' impact on youngsters. Get your news on the go, click here to join the IOL News WhatsApp channel. 'I think this coach is one coach who will leave a serious foundation for us,' Bafana's skipper at the 2010 World Cup said during the SABC3 broadcast. 'I mean, these are international standards, senior international standards… I coached him at the U20s. He could play left-back, but today the interceptions that he had gave me the belief that he deserves a chance to be part of the squad.' It's easy to forget that Mbokazi was playing in the Multichoice Diski Challenge at the beginning of last season. After he was promoted to Pirates' first team, he convinced Jose Riveiro and the rest of the technical staff at the club that he belonged at that level. And it didn't take long for Bafana coach Broos to jump on the bandwagon. "I think what I saw from Mbokazi was, for me, his game is very mature. He takes good decisions, and he's a good defender – he's not the tallest, but he wins aerial duels," the Belgian Broos said in the lead-up to the June friendlies. "He's 1.80m, I think, but he doesn't lose many duels. He has good positioning and reads the attack well, so yeah, he's a good defender." Despite still being a teenager, Mbokazi has done enough to ensure that he gets more opportunities at international level, and South Africans should be excited about his potential. After Riveiro jumped ship and headed to Al Ahly in Egypt, reports suggested he was keen on taking the youngster with him. It still remains to be seen if that interest is concrete. Regardless, he is one player who will likely move abroad in no time. Mbokazi should now just focus on improving and hope he avoids injuries. We have had players with his potential in the past. Rivaldo Coetzee was also just a teenager when he made his international debut, and big things were expected from the man from Kakamas in the Northern Cape. However, an injured foot back in 2017 stopped him from moving to Europe. After securing a big-money move from Ajax Cape Town to Mamelodi Sundowns, it looked like he was going places, but more injuries saw him become a bit-part player at the club. Now at just 28 years old, when he should be at the peak of his football career, Coetzee is on the hunt for a new club after being released by Sundowns. Mbokazi will be hoping none of that happens to him. If Tuesday night was anything to go by, South African football may have found its next defensive lynchpin – a player with the poise, intelligence and hunger to go where few local defenders ever have. But talent alone isn't enough. The challenge now is consistency, staying grounded, and navigating the physical and mental demands that come with top-level football. Mbokazi has made a statement with his debut; the real journey begins from here. If managed well, and protected from the pitfalls that have undone others before him, this 19-year-old from Hluhluwe in northern KwaZulu-Natal could become more than just a promising player – he could be the standard-bearer for a new generation of Bafana Bafana defenders. IOL Sport * The views expressed are not necessarily the views of IOL or Independent Media. ** JOIN THE CONVERSATION: Send us an email with your comments, thoughts or responses to [email protected]. Letters should be a maximum of 500 words, and may be edited for length. Anonymous correspondence will not be published. Submissions should include a contact number and physical address (not for publication).
The South African
23-05-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Opinion: Why Orlando Pirates 'TLB' should move to Europe and not Al Ahly
Orlando Pirates' new fan favourite Mbekezeli Mbokazi, has undoubtedly been one of the most exciting defenders in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), despite only featuring in the second half of the season. The 19-year-old left-footed player has played a total of 17 matches across all competitions this season and has scored one goal, which was in the Nedbank Cup. Displaying maturity, discipline, and authority, Mbokazi is undoubtedly one of the league's best defenders. The question remains: Will he stay with Orlando Pirates beyond next season? In recent weeks, he has been linked with a move to Egyptian giants Al Ahly. However, such a transfer appears unlikely, given that the teenager has recently broken into the starting eleven for Pirates. Mbokazi was given his chance by the departed Bucs coach, Jose Riveiro. With Riveiro set to join Al Ahly, there are rumours that he wants to bring Mbokazi along with him. A move to Al Ahly wouldn't make sense, especially considering how Pirates have fared in the CAF Champions League. Both teams were eliminated in the semifinals of the competition and will compete again next season. At Orlando Pirates, Mbokazi has the opportunity to develop. He is not a finished product and needs another season or two to refine his defensive game. The most logical move for him would be to transition to Europe next season. Another year in the PSL would provide him with confidence and valuable experience. Moving to Egypt might turn out poorly for TLB, similar to what happened with Percy Tau when he joined Pitso Mosimane at Al Ahly. Although Tau won league titles and the Champions League, he did not see improvements in his game. Ultimately, it will be up to Orlando Pirates to retain him for another season and wait for the right offer from overseas. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
