Orlando Pirates fans have every reason to be excited as a new talent emerges from their ranks. Mbekezeli Mbokazi, the gifted central defender, is already making waves and showing signs of becoming a true club legend.
As of 19 September 2025, he steps out of his teenage years and into a bright future for South African football.
A Debut to Remember
Mbokazi’s first taste of top-flight action came on 5 March 2025, a day that might be remembered as a turning point for the Pirates.
At just 19, he made his debut in a 1-0 victory, keeping a clean sheet and immediately proving his worth.
From that point on, he became a fixture in the first team, earning praise from DStv Diski Challenge head coach Joseph Makhanya for his composure and talent.
He continued to impress in matches against SuperSport in the Nedbank Cup, where he scored the opener in a 2-2 draw, and against Stellenbosch, contributing to a 0-0 stalemate.
His standout performance in the thrilling cup tie against Matsatsantsa and his role in Pirates’ 2-1 win over league leaders Sundowns further cemented his reputation as a rising defensive star.
Leadership and Accolades
Fast-forward to the 2025-2026 season, and Mbokazi, who turns 20 today, has already captained the team in Nkosinathi Sibisi’s absence.
His consistency and impact have not gone unnoticed.
Orlando Pirates confirmed that his stellar form earned him the Player of the Month award for August, a fitting recognition for a player who has already appeared in 28 matches and contributed crucial goals and assists.
Drawing Parallels with Oldjohn Mabizela
Fans can’t help but recall Mbulelo “Oldjohn” Mabizela when watching Mbokazi shine.
Mabizela was a supremely talented central defender whose potential never fully translated into trophies.
Despite earning 45 caps for Bafana Bafana and winning the Norwegian title with Valerenga in 2005, his career remains memorable for his undeniable skill and flair.
Much like Mbokazi today, Mabizela’s talent was obvious from the start, catching the eye of European clubs.
Tottenham recognized his potential and signed him for R44 million (in today’s terms) in July 2003.
While controversy occasionally shadowed Mabizela, fans remember his footballing ability above all else—a feeling that Mbokazi is beginning to evoke in the present day.
A Bright Future Ahead
With his talent, leadership, and early achievements, Mbekezeli Mbokazi is on a trajectory that could see him etch his name among Orlando Pirates’ all-time greats.
As he enters adulthood, supporters will be watching eagerly, hoping that the young defender continues to rise and deliver the brilliance glimpsed in his first few seasons.