Orlando Pirates coach urges fans to be patient as young defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi impresses in South African football

Every football club dreams of discovering young talent, and Orlando Pirates seem to have struck gold with 19-year-old central defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi.

His impressive performances have caught the eye of fans and analysts alike, but head coach Jose Riveiro has a word of caution for supporters.

Coach Riveiro Urges Patience for Young Talent

Riveiro acknowledges that Mbokazi has made an exciting impact since breaking into the first team.

“I know the boy is getting a lot of attention because he’s new, he’s performing well, and he’s bringing great energy to the team,” he shared with iDiski Times.

However, the coach emphasized that Mbokazi is still at the beginning of his professional career, and ups and downs are inevitable.

“We all need to be patient—fans included—because he’s just starting out.

It’s going to be a journey with highs and lows, but he’s definitely a player to watch for the future,” Riveiro added.

Controversy Over Match Scheduling Against Mamelodi Sundowns

While the excitement builds for the upcoming clash between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns, Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has raised concerns about the scheduling.

The match has been set for Sunday, just before the latest Bafana Bafana camp, leaving national team players with no time to rest.

“It’s unfair to schedule the game on Sunday because players will head straight into national duty with zero recovery time,” Cardoso told FARPost. “This affects their ability to perform at their best.

Players are not machines; they need proper rest, time with their families, and a chance to recover physically.”

Cardoso’s remarks highlight the ongoing debate about fixture congestion and player welfare, especially as teams juggle club and international commitments.

Orlando Pirates Determined to Keep Fighting

Despite trailing Mamelodi Sundowns by 18 points, Orlando Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa remains optimistic about their title hopes.

With 12 games left to play compared to Sundowns’ eight, Mabasa believes the race isn’t over yet.

“I don’t think this match will decide our title chances,” Mabasa said in an interview with Sowetan.

“There are still plenty of games ahead, plenty of points to fight for.

Anything can happen in football, but we know we have to go out there and give our best on Sunday.”

Mabasa emphasized the team’s hunger for success. “This club has a rich history, and we want to add to it.

Winning the league would mean everything to us. We have to leave our mark and make sure our names are remembered.”