Latest news with #MbekezeliMbokazi
IOL News
29-05-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
Bafana Bafana squad: Hugo Broos calls up Orlando Pirates youngsters Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Mohau Nkota
One to keep an eye on Orlando Pirates defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi has receeved his maiden call-up to the national team by Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos. Photo: BackpagePix Orlando Pirates youngsters Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Mohau Nkota are set to make their international debuts after being named in the Bafana Bafana squad for upcoming friendlies. It's been a rollercoaster season for teenager Mbokazi, who played his first senior game for the club just this year. Nkota has also received a nod from coach Hugo Broos after impressing for Ezikamagebhula. Also receiving their maiden call-ups were Simphiwe Selepe and Deano Van Rooyen, who also play for Orlando Pirates. In total, nine players from Pirates were selected for the friendlies. Players from Betway Premiership champions Mamelodi Sundowns were not considered. Abafana beStyle are currently set to take part in the second leg of the CAF Champions League final this weekend and will be in the United States next month to play in the FIFA Club World Cup.
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.
The South African
23-05-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Orlando Pirates starlet set for Europe after Bafana call-up
Orlando Pirates starlet Mbekezeli Mbokazi continues to rise rapidly in South African football. With his reputation receiving a significant boost following his inclusion in Hugo Broos' 41-man preliminary squad for Bafana Bafana's upcoming international friendlies this June. The Orlando Pirates centre-back, who has long stood out as one of the club's most exciting young prospects, now finds himself on the radar of European clubs. At only 19, Mbokazi brings a level of maturity and tactical awareness rarely seen in players his age. His calmness in possession, keen sense of positioning. And strong defensive qualities have earned widespread admiration within South African football circles. He is one of 12 fresh faces called up by Broos, who appears keen on integrating new talent into the national setup. Despite strong interest from within the continent, most notably from Egyptian giants Al Ahly. Orlando Pirates have made it clear they will not entertain offers from African clubs. Former Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro reportedly plans to take charge in Cairo. He remains an admirer of Mbokazi, having handed him his senior debut. However, a source insist the focus is firmly on Europe. 'The club believes Mbokazi is better suited to a European move. Where the level of competition and development structures can truly unlock his full potential,' a source said. Mbokazi's absence from the South African U20 squad for the recent AFCON tournament raised eyebrows, but it was no oversight. Pirates made a strategic decision to keep him involved in their demanding season. Which included campaigns in the Nedbank Cup, Betway Premiership, and CAF Champions League. While the Buccaneers ultimately fell short in all three competitions, Mbokazi's individual performances stood out. Strengthening his case as one of the most promising defenders to emerge in recent years. On the flip side, he missed a valuable chance to impress scouts. Who travelled from across the globe to discover African talent. He may come to regret that decision in the future, as scouts rely heavily on watching players perform live. Will this Orlando Pirates starlet make his way to Europe? 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.
The South African
23-05-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Chiefs & Pirates transfer rumours: Mayele, Mbokazi, Michael
Today's rumours suggest Kaizer Chiefs have pulled the plug on a move for Fiston Mayele, while Orlando Pirates prodigy Mbekezeli Mbokazi is wanted in Africa. As things stand, Congolese marksman Fiston Mayele will not be joining Kaizer Chiefs. 'Almost every time they want to sign him, the price goes up because there are other clubs interested in him as well, and now it's believed that Pyramids are extending his contract, which makes it even harder to convince them to let him go,' a source revealed. Chiefs walk away from the Mayele deal When is Sundowns vs Pyramids in the Champions League final? Egyptian giants Al Ahly want to reclaim their Caf Champions League crown. Orlando Pirates' teenage defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi is a target. 'Al-Ahly club officials have already begun exploring the possibility of signing South African defender Mbekezile Mbokazi during the upcoming summer transfer window, ahead of the Club World Cup, with the player being registered under the exceptional registration period that FIFA announced would open starting next June,' Sport El Watan reported. Click for the story Potential Orlando Pirates XI next season Mbokazi representing South Africa at the age group level. Image: TSA Kaizer Chiefs chase Michael Kingsley Michael is still only 25, but the Nigerian midfield orchestrator has already been around the block. His club career has seen him enjoy stints across Europe. First in Italy with Bologna, Perugia, Cremonese and Reggina. Then, spells with SV Ried and DSV Leoben in Austria. Now he's on the books of Monastir in Tunisia. Surprisingly, he's only earned one cap for Nigeria's Super Eagles. Click for more on Michael Kingsley Michael in action for US Monastir in Tunisia. Image: Goal Where will Mbokazi be playing his football next season? Let us know by leaving a comment below or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Also, subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
23-05-2025
- Sport
- The South African
African giants sniffing around Orlando Pirates prodigy Mbokazi
Mbekezeli Mbokazi has exploded onto the scene during his breakout campaign with Orlando Pirates. A long list of admirers watches on. Egyptian giants Al Ahly want to reclaim their Caf Champions League crown. Orlando Pirates' teenage defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi is a target. 'Al-Ahly club officials have already begun exploring the possibility of signing South African defender Mbekezile Mbokazi during the upcoming summer transfer window, ahead of the Club World Cup, with the player being registered under the exceptional registration period that FIFA announced would open starting next June,' Sport El Watan reported. Potential Orlando Pirates XI next season Sipho Chaine, Deano van Rooyen, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Simphiwe Selepe, Thalente Mbatha, Evidence Makgopa, Tshegofatso Mabasa, Patrick Maswanganyi, Rele Mofokeng and Mohau Nkota are the 11 Sea Robbers stars in the group. Bruce Bvuma, Yusuf Maart and Mduduzi Shabalala are the Chiefs trio included. Orlando Pirates fans are expectant on Soweto Derby Day. Image: BackpagePix Meanwhile, Hlompho Kekana is a huge fan of Makhehlene Makhaula's industry in midfield for the Sea Robbers. 'This is my Player for the Season [Makhehleni Makhaula],' said Kekana on SABC Sport's Soccer Zone. Click for the story Should Orlando Pirates cash in on Mbokazi now? Let us know by leaving a comment below or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Also, subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
