The spotlight is firmly on Orlando Pirates’ young defender, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, as he continues to impress on and off the pitch.
The 19-year-old has been turning heads with his composure, leadership, and defensive prowess, earning high praise from Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos, who believes Europe could be the next step in his career.
Mbokazi, who has already captained the Buccaneers in the absence of Nkosinathi Sibisi, has shown remarkable maturity for someone so young.
Broos, while announcing his squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Nigeria, made it clear that including the Hluhlwe-born star was an easy decision.
Hugo Broos Highlights Mbokazi’s Exceptional Talent
Speaking about Mbokazi, the Belgian coach didn’t hold back.
He revealed that in his four years leading the South African national team, he hasn’t seen a defender of the teenager’s caliber.
“From the beginning, he showed a very mature attitude.
He’s confident, strong, with good technique, and he plays without fear,” Broos explained.
“For the four years I am here, I never saw a defender like this, and young.
If it goes on like this, this is a guy who has to go to Europe next year.”
Makhehlene Makhaula’s Journey to Orlando Pirates
While the Buccaneers are celebrating young talent, veteran midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula has shared his own remarkable journey, which almost ended before it truly began.
The 35-year-old, affectionately known as ‘Shoes,’ revealed in the club’s new documentary, Giants, that he nearly walked away from football before fate led him to Orlando Pirates.
“I remember wanting to give up,” Makhaula admitted. “I thought it was over.
From Highlands Park to COVID, to the team getting sold.
When my agent called me, he said, ‘Cash, Pirates want to sign you.’ I told him, ‘No way.’ I was 34. How could Pirates want me at that age?”
Makhaula’s Career Before Joining the Buccaneers
Before finding his home at Orlando Pirates, Makhaula had stints at several clubs:
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Trabzon FC – 2014
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Free State Stars – 2019
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Highlands Park – 2020
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AmaZulu FC – 2023
Despite the doubts surrounding his age, Makhaula’s determination and talent helped him shine at Pirates.
Contributions and Honours at Orlando Pirates
Makhaula has become a key figure in the Pirates midfield, contributing significantly over the past few seasons:
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2022-23 Season: 10 appearances
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2023-24 Season: 19 appearances, 1 goal
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2024-25 Season: 44 appearances, 1 goal
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2025-26 Season: Currently sidelined due to injury
He has also lifted multiple trophies with the club:
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MTN8 Champion 2024
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MTN8 Champion 2023
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Nedbank Cup Champion 2023
