Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has outlined the exceptional qualities that made the dependable centre-back Mbekezeli Mbokazi stand out at the Soweto giants.
‘TLB’, as he is affectionately known, played his final match for the Soweto giants in the Carling Knockout Cup final against Marumo Gallants at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane on Saturday night.
The 20-year-old received a warm farewell as Pirates claimed the Carling Knockout title after a 1-0 victory over Bahlabane ba Ntwa, thanks to Relebohile Mofokeng’s goal in the first half of extra time.
Mbokazi has signed for Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire FC. The USA club unveiled the Bafana Bafana international on Tuesday, 2 December 2025.
He departs the Sea Robbers in style, having won two trophies [MTN8 and Carling Knockout] and enjoyed the privilege of captaining the club.
Mbokazi made his debut for the Buccaneers on 5 March against Chippa United in the Betway Premiership tie last season, after impressing while playing for Pirates’ DStv Diski Challenge [DDC] team, which was coached by Joseph Makhanya at the time.
ABDESLAM OUADDOU ON MBEKEZELI MBOKAZI’S QUALITIES
Ouaddou praised Mbokazi’s defining attributes—his speed, strong leadership qualities, and excellent defensive cover—stating that these traits distinguish him and make him a strong candidate to integrate seamlessly into the Chicago Fire setup.
“First of all, regarding the way we are playing with a high block and counter-pressing, sometimes you take some risks, and it’s very important to have a central defender with speed. You know, because you leave a lot of space at the back, and most of the teams we are playing against play in transitions. So, Mbokazi did a fantastic job covering that,” said Ouaddou.
“You can see when the opponents play using the space at the back; you can imagine the speed he has and how he manages to win duels. He is a central defender who is comfortable with his feet. Especially in modern football, where we want to build and cross the lines with passes, he is able to play both short and long. He is strong on his feet and good with his head.
“I think he has a good future. I believe he will improve even more. I think in the US, they will help him improve in terms of leadership and communication because you need someone to take the lead from the back to push the lines. Hence, communication is very important because when you are a captain and playing as one of two central defenders, you need to command and take the lead since you have the game in front of you and you are seeing everything.”
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