‘Like A Dream’: Rapoo Plans To Conquer Pirates

Orlando Pirates’ new recruit Neo Rapoo says making his first appearance at the iconic Orlando Amstel Arena this past weekend was a dream come true.

Regarded as one of the country’s brightest young talents, the 20-year-old completed a move from Siwelele to the Buccaneers during the off-season.

He was first introduced to the Bucs faithful during the club’s pre-season tour of Spain, where he featured in three of their five friendly matches.

Rapoo made his official debut as Pirates opened the defence of their Betway Premiership title with a 2-0 victory over Milford at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday. He came on in the 76th minute to replace experienced utility player Deon Hotto.

“Firstly, I didn’t believe it was actually happening, but once I came on, I just told myself to keep it simple and enjoy the moment because I’m privileged to play for this big club and blessed as well,” Rapoo told the club’s website.

Pirates secured the victory through goals from Oswin Appollis and Patrick Maswanganyi. Rapoo is already familiar with both players from their time at SuperSport United before the club’s Premiership status was sold to form Siwelele.

Having progressed through Matsatsantsa’s academy before graduating to the senior team, Rapoo believes those familiar faces have helped him settle quickly at his new club.

“Playing with (Oswin) Appollis, Tito (Patrick Maswanganyi), Thalente (Mbatha) and others at SuperSport, then coming here with (Bohlale) Ngwato and (Gamphani) Lungu, it just felt good to be there,” he added.

Unlike at Siwelele, competition for places at Pirates is intense, meaning Rapoo faces a tough challenge to establish himself as a regular in the starting line-up.

While relishing the opportunity to learn from and compete alongside the club’s experienced players, he is also confident in the qualities he can bring to the team.

“Of course, I’m still learning as a young footballer and learning a lot from Hotto, who has been at the club for a long time, but I do feel that with the quality of set-pieces I can deliver, I may stand out a bit,” Rapoo said.

“Of course, they are all top players that I can learn from as well.”

Asked what Pirates supporters can expect from him this season, Rapoo said his main ambition is to help the club continue its success.

“I’m just a young boy from Rustenburg who wants to be part of the club’s history and contribute with goals from set-pieces, as well as plenty of assists and goals, to help the club collect maximum points and make the fans happy,” he said.

Rapoo will have another opportunity to play at Orlando Amstel Arena on Saturday when Pirates begin the defence of their MTN8 title against Durban City. The Buccaneers are chasing a fifth consecutive MTN8 crown, having already won the competition a record four seasons in a row.