Latest news with #Mbokazi
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
20-05-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Jose Riveiro wants this Orlando Pirates star as his first Al Ahly signing
Former Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro, who is set to take over as Al Ahly's new manager, reportedly wants to bring a familiar face with him to Egypt. According t reports, Riveiro has identified Mbekezeli Mbokazi as his first potential signing for the Red Devils. Riveiro officially left the Buccaneers last week and confirmed that he would join Al Ahly ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup. He is expected to take the reins once the current Egyptian season concludes, with Emad El-Nahhas remaining interim coach in the meantime. Reports suggest that Mbokazi, a rising 19-year-old defender, has been tipped by Riveiro's staff as a key addition to bolster Al Ahly's backline. The Spanish coach is said to admire the youngster's defensive strength and sees him as a perfect fit for his system. Mbokazi's age works in Al Ahly's favour – being only 19, he qualifies as an underage player, which means his signing won't affect the club's foreign player quota. This makes him an even more attractive option for the Egyptian giants. The South African U20 international enjoyed a breakthrough 2024/25 season with Orlando Pirates, featuring 16 times and scoring once. His performances have not gone unnoticed, drawing attention from one of Africa's most decorated clubs. 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
20-05-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Former Orlando Pirates coach wants Mbokazi as his first signing
Former Orlando Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro left the Bucs last week, and will reportedly join Al Ahly before the FIFA Club World Cup. The Spanish guitar will take over once the season ends. And the interim coach Emad El-Nahhas is expected to remain in charge until the end of the current campaign. But now according to reports from Egypt, incoming Al Ahly manager wants Pirates star Mbekezeli Mbokazi to be his first signing. But why do Al Ahly want to sign the talented defender, because the 19-year-old can be registered as an underage player, meaning his signing won't impact the African giants foreign slots spot. In the Egyptian Premier League, the current under-age rule for foreign players allows each club to register three under-age players, under 20 years old, alongside five over-age foreign players. While a club can register up to 8 foreign players, only 6 can play in a match, and one of those must be an under-age player, according to Yalla Shoot . The South African under 20 international was stopped from joining the AFCON U20 champions because of his importance to Orlando Pirates. At the time the team were in the CAF Champions League semi-finals and in the Nedbank Cup final. Mbokazi made 16 appearances in all competitions, netted one goal against SuperSport United in the quarter-finals of the Nedbank Cup. And laid an assist against Golden Arrows in the Betway Premiership. When asked if he would want to sign Orlando Pirates at his new club. Jose Riveiro said it was not up to him. 'It's a difficult question, Pirates is full of talent, full of really good prospects. But that's not my role and will never be. Right now in modern football, we as coaches have a say obviously in the players who are coming and going. But it belongs more to the strategic side of the business,' he told Radio 947. Should Mbokazi follow the former Orlando Pirates boss Riveiro to Al Ahly? 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
20-05-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Orlando Pirates agree terms with experienced PSL maestro
Orlando Pirates are close to snapping up Sihle Nduli from Stellies. 29-year-old Stellies schemer Sihle Nduli is poised to join Pirates. He's made 23 league appearances this term and picked up a slightly concerning tally of nine yellow cards. ' iDiski Times has it on good authority that a verbal agreement has been reached to join the Buccaneers next season.' Speculation: Mbokazi, Benni, 'new Jali' TRANSFERS: NINE huge names linked with Pirates Meanwhile, 23-year-old Tshepho Mashiloane will soon swap Baroka for Orlando Pirates. Former Stellies man Deano van Rooyen is the incumbent in the right-back position, with Bandile Shandu deputising. Thabiso Monyane and his namesake Thabiso Lebitso have hardly had a look-in during the 2024-2025 campaign. Click for the full story Orlando Pirates fans are expectant on Soweto Derby Day. Image: BackpagePix Chaine; Van Rooyen, Sibisi, Mbokazi, Letlapa; Mbatha, Nemtajela; Nkota, Maswanganyi, Mofokeng; Makgopa. This XI would see Vuyo Letlapa at left-back (although he could move to France) and Masindi Nemtajela replacing the ageing Makhehlene Makhaula. That might be harsh on the latter, who's been a standout performer for the Buccaneers in 2024-2025. Also, can you see a vacancy in that XI for Fiston Mayele? If so, what does the club do about Tshegofatso Mabasa and Evidence Makgopa, not to mention Boitumelo Radiopane? On the coaching front, there's a clamour for Kenya National Team coach Benni McCarthy to sit in the Pirates dugout. Are you a fan of Nduli, or does his disciplinary record worry you? 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.
