“What A Blessing”: Soweto Derby Hero Reacts After Masterclass Performance Against Chiefs

Orlando Pirates midfielder Thapelo Mokobodi has described his first Soweto Derby as a special experience after playing a decisive role in the Buccaneers’ victory over Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on Saturday.

The 23-year-old provided assists for both Yanela Mbuthuma and Tshepang Moremi as the Buccaneers secured a 2-1 Betway Premiership victory in front of a sold-out crowd.

Mokobodi capped off an impressive performance by claiming the Man of the Match award, taking his tally to four individual accolades this season. He has also contributed two goals and four assists across all competitions for Pirates.

Reflecting on the occasion, Mokobodi expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to represent the club in such a significant fixture, while acknowledging the challenge of facing their biggest rivals.

“It’s my first Soweto Derby, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to represent this club. What a blessing it is to be part of this journey and this team, and to experience such a big game,” he told Pirates TV.

“It’s not an easy game. It’s more than just a match because it’s between two rivals, two giants. We had to show up and give everything because our objective was to get the three points, which we managed to do.

“We had to create something. It wasn’t an easy game, especially in the first half, but we tried our best to get an early goal, which we did. They scored, and we had to react.

“Honestly, our first-half performance wasn’t that good, but we had to represent the badge with pride and show up, which we did.”

With the derby victory behind them, Pirates will now turn their attention to the Carling Knockout, where they are scheduled to host Sekhukhune United in a quarter-final encounter.

Mokobodi will be eager to carry his impressive form into the cup competition as the Buccaneers look to maintain their momentum and secure a place in the semi-finals.