Broos Sees European Future For Mbokazi

Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos has high praise for defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi, calling for him to take his talents to Europe after a stellar performance against Nigeria in the FIFA World Cup qualifier on Tuesday. 

Mbokazi’s impressive display marked his third game with the national team, following his debut in June in a friendly match and a subsequent game against Lesotho on Friday.

“Mbokazi… this guy has to go to Europe, he’s 19 years old, you see the way he is playing, it’s like he has 10 years of experience at this level, it’s his third game with the national team, and you see how he’s playing,” Broos said. 

“So, let’s hope that some players can do the step next here (move to Europe), it will be very good for South African football, really.”

Mbokazi was outstanding at the back, winning many balls and making a crucial block on Ademola Lookman’s shot, which almost resulted in a goal for the Super Eagles. His exceptional performance earned him the man of the match award.

Reflecting on the game, Mbokazi attributed the team’s success to their rigorous training and teamwork. 

“Firstly, I would like to say we trained very well preparing for this game, and the coaches told us let’s go and fight for this game, and we all wanted to win it as we were encouraging each other,” Mbokazi said on SABC Sport after the game.

The former Amajita captain expressed his satisfaction with the result, highlighting the team’s growing chances of qualifying for the World Cup. 

“About today’s results, I think we’re happy because there are many chances for us to go to the World Cup,” he stated.

“If we can continue like this, I believe we’ll go to the World Cup, and this was the only game we were scared of, and we managed to fight and get at least one point because we told each other that they won’t beat us, and we’re happy with the draw.”

The young defender credited his experienced teammates for their support, which helped him perform confidently against seasoned opponents. 

“Yes, I was playing against well-experienced players, but I think in our national team, we have experienced players as well, and they encouraged me a lot to do well and not be scared,” he added. 

“They told me to play my normal football and not allow other things from outside the pitch to distract me, and that’s why I played very well, then thanks to Siyabonga Ngezana and Teboho Mokoena for covering me if I made a mistake.”

Mbokazi will now return to his club, Orlando Pirates, which will face Stellenbosch in the MTN8 Cup final at Mbombela Stadium on Saturday. 

This will be Mbokazi’s second final with the Buccaneers, following their Nedbank Cup final appearance against Kaizer Chiefs in May.