Orlando Pirates coach give green light for Mbekezeli Mbokazi to join Under-20 World Cup squad
Rising star Despite being only 19, Mbekezeli Mbokazi has been entrusted with the captain's armband by Spwetoo giants Orlando Pirates. The club now say they won't stand in his way if he's selected for the Under-20 World Cup. Photo: Zamani Makautsi/BackpagePix
Image: Zamani Makautsi/BackpagePix
Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says they won’t stand in Mbekezeli Mbokazi’s way if he’s selected to represent South Africa at next month’s Under-20 World Cup.
The preliminary Amajita squad was named on Wednesday, and Mbokazi’s name was absent from the list, leaving many fans scratching their heads and asking why one of the best teenage defenders in the country isn’t going to the tournament in Chile.
The 19-year-old missed the recent Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations campaign after becoming an important player for the club.
So impressive have his performances been – since making his debut last season – that he’s recently been appointed the club’s vice-captain and has even captained the team in Nkosinathi Sibisi’s absence this season.
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He’s also made his debut for the senior national team, and many expect him to push for a regular place as Hugo Broos’ men attempt to qualify for next year’s World Cup in North America.
But, despite his growing stature, Ouaddou has insisted that if Mbokazi is selected, they won’t stand in his way.
“I never stop the player, and the club never stops the player from going to the national team. It’s a proud moment to represent the national team, to be part of the best players in the country,” the Pirates head coach said, as quoted by FARPost.
“Of course, we’re going to speak with management about that [Mbokazi’s possible departure for the World Cup], but we can’t stop someone from joining the national team.”
Should Mbokazi be selected, he will play alongside Tylon Smith, who was named the player of the tournament at the Under-20 Afcon that South Africa won earlier this year. The impressive 20-year-old has since left Stellenbosch FC and moved to Queens Park Rangers in England.
With Mbokazi in the side, there’s a growing belief that the team could go all the way and bring the Under-20 World Cup trophy back to South Africa. For now, Mbokazi can focus on continuing his fine form with Orlando Pirates, knowing that any national team call-up would be met with full support from his club.
With his leadership and talent, Mbokazi has the potential to inspire a young South African squad to make history in Chile.
IOL Sport