In a significant boost to football in South Africa, Bafana Bafana defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi, aged 19, has been called up by the Bafana Bafana side for June friendlies. This is a significant achievement in the nascent career of Mbokazi, testifying to his excellent performance at both club and junior international levels.
Rising Through the Ranks
Born on September 19, 2005, in Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal, Mbokazi started his football career at Langalibalele Academy before coming through to the Orlando Pirates’ DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) side in 2024. His leadership ability was on display as he wore the captain’s arm-band for the DDC team, demonstrating maturity far in excess of his years. Mbokazi first appeared for Orlando Pirates at senior level on March 5, 2025, helping them win 1-0 against Chippa United. His finest performance came shortly thereafter, when he was awarded the Man of the Match during a convincing win over Mamelodi Sundowns on 16 March 2025.
International Recognition
Mbokazi’s talent has not gone unnoticed by the global stage. He was part of South Africa’s U-20 team that claimed the 2024 COSAFA U-20 Cup, playing all matches and scoring in the 5-0 victory over Malawi. His performances have seen him be added to the preliminary Bafana Bafana squad to host Tanzania and Namibia in the June friendlies.
A Strategic Addition
Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos has expressed enthusiasm about integrating young talents like Mbokazi into the national team setup. Broos highlighted the emergence of left-footed central defenders, a position that has lacked depth in recent years. “That makes me happy. because we’ve looked a long, long time to have left-footed central defenders,” Broos remarked, emphasizing the importance of players like Mbokazi in strengthening the squad’s defensive options.
Looking Ahead
Mbokazi’s inclusion in the Bafana Bafana squad is testament to his rapid development and promise for South African football. With the national squad building up to the close future’s friendlies, fans and commentators will be interested in how this young defender copes with the international senior level. His development is an inspiration to young players nationwide, showing the rewards of hard work and excellence
