Stellenbosch FC head coach Gavin Hunt has thrown his full weight behind new Orlando Pirates defender Neo Rapoo, making a bold assertion about the left-back’s quality relative to his competition in Soweto.
The 21-year-old South African youth international joined the Buccaneers ahead of the 2026/27 Betway Premiership season from Siwelele FC following an impressive stint in Bloemfontein.
Rapoo arrived as part of a heavily bolstered Pirates side aiming to defend their Betway Premiership, MTN8, and Carling Knockout Cup titles, while simultaneously launching a serious assault on the CAF Champions League. He was unveiled alongside new additions including Bohlale Ngwato, Gamphani Lungu, Mthetheleli Mthiyane, Sbangani Zulu, Matome Mmolai, Thapelo Mokobodi, Sebastian Pedersen, and Aphiwe Baliti.
Despite the high-profile move, breaking into Abdeslam Ouaddou’s starting XI has proven challenging. Rapoo has so far been restricted to one second-half substitute appearance, competing against veteran Deon Hotto and Nkosikhona Ndaba for the left-wing-back role.
‘NO ONE IS BETTER THAN HIM’ – NEO RAPOO
Having handed Rapoo his senior debut during their time together at SuperSport United prior to the franchise sale to Siwelele in July 2025, Hunt remains firmly convinced of the youngster’s ceiling.
“He’s a fantastic player; he has elevated now, as I said. I gave him his debut all these years ago,” Hunt remarked. “There’s no stopping him; I just hope he gets time to play, as you know, big squad [at Pirates].”
Addressing the left-back dynamic at Bucs, the veteran coach insisted that Rapoo possesses all the attributes to cement his place once handed a sustained run.
“I don’t think there’s anyone better than him there from all aspects,” Hunt asserted. “So I wish him well. I mean, Hotto is 37, and he’s 21. I can see why he’s been bought. Hotto has had a great career from when I had him at [Bidvest] Wits.”
With the Sea Robbers navigating a congested schedule across five major competitions, squad rotation will be vital—giving Rapoo every opportunity to turn Hunt’s high praise into starting appearances.
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