Mbokazi Fueled By Man Of The Match Awards
Rising Orlando Pirates defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi has expressed his gratitude for receiving Man of the Match awards, stating that they motivate him to continue his hard work.
Since making his PSL debut against Chippa United in March under coach Jose Riveiro, the powerful Mbokazi has made a significant impact at the Soweto giants.
In his six appearances, Pirates have won five matches, with Mbokazi earning four Man of the Match awards, including his latest in the win against Polokwane City in the Betway Premiership match at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday.
Mbokazi has also featured in crucial victories against Mamelodi Sundowns in the league and MC Alger in the first leg of the CAF Champions League quarter-final last week. He also scored during Pirates’ penalty shootout win over SuperSport United in the Nedbank Cup quarter-final at the same venue in Polokwane.
Mbokazi’s physicality will be vital as Pirates host MC Alger in the second leg of the quarter final in the Champions League at Orlando Stadium on Wednesday. The Buccaneers are aiming for a semi-final spot in the Champions League, where they are currently on an 11-match unbeaten streak.
“I’m so happy to be getting these Man of the Match awards,” Mbokazi said via Pirates media after their win against Polokwane.
“Sometimes I’m not expecting it, and it happens, and that fuels me to keep going and improve on what I have now.”
Pirates struggled to break down Polokwane City in the first half and ultimately needed a goal from fellow defender Nkosinathi Sibisi to secure the three points. The victory moved Pirates to 46 points after 20 matches, reducing the gap to log leaders Mamelodi Sundowns to 12 points, with Pirates holding three games in hand.
“The three points we got on Saturday came from our training. The coach told us what we needed to do to win, and we executed that,” he emphasized.
“We saw in the first half that it was difficult; the spaces were closed, and we were running out of ideas on how to open them up. The coach returned with a new plan, which worked, and we secured the three points. We are extremely happy, as these points are crucial in our league campaign.”
