Former AmaZulu defender Tsepo Masilela believes Tapelo Xoki will be able to settle in well in the Orlando Pirates setup after joining the Soweto giants in a deal that saw Gabadinho Mhango moving to Usuthu.
Xoki, 27, has been the pillar of the KwaZulu-Natal club’s backline, having made 38 appearances across all competitions for AmaZulu in the 2021/22 season. He joined Usuthu in 2014 and rose through the ranks to become an important member of the first team.
The defender’s move to the Sea Robbers can be seen as an impressive deal struck by the club and a real opportunity for the Khayelitsha-born footballer.
“Tapelo is great a guy. You know, having him captain AmaZulu at a young age says something about him. For me, he got the experience, and he is one of the good leaders, a team player, and always putting the team first,” Tsepo Masilela told FARPost.
There was also a congratulatory message from the former Bafana Bafana international, who played alongside Xoki in the last two seasons at Usuthu.
“I’m happy he has got this opportunity to play for Pirates. He joins the club at the right time and at the right age. He is a hard-working player who will do anything for his team,” added the ex-Kaizer Chiefs defender.
“But in football, anything is possible. Only time will tell how things unfold for him at his new team.”
The defender will be hoping to play a major role in Spanish mentor Jose Riveiro’s plans and help Bucs win some silverware in the upcoming season.
The new man in charge has vowed to bring an impressive and energetic approach to football that he believes will be more suitable for Happy people.
“We must offer a good show every time we play, and it doesn’t mean we have to play tiki-taka. We have to be brave. We must be a proactive team and look for a good result every week, every chance we have,” said the 46-year-old tactician during the DStv launch last week.
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