Former Orlando Pirates winger Lebohang Mokoena has recalled how the late Emmanuel “Scara” Ngobese spent time training with the Buccaneers before ultimately joining arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs in 2003.
Ngobese remains one of the most beloved figures in South African football history.
During his three-year spell at Naturena, he became a fan favourite and earned the nickname “The Black Jesus” for his extraordinary dribbling ability and flair on the ball.
Speaking about his close friend, Mokoena revealed that Scara trained with Pirates for several weeks, leaving many at the club convinced he would sign for the Soweto giants.
“We are talking about Emmanuel Scara Ngobese, The Black Jesus. What a friend of mine. May his soul continue to rest in peace,” Mokoena said on Soccerbeat.
Mokoena, affectionately known as Cheeseboy, recalled his surprise when he first saw Ngobese travelling to Pirates training.
“At that time, I was training with the first team, but I didn’t have a car. Patrick Twala, who stayed in Katlehong, used to pick me up because I was living in Vosloorus.
“One day, he came to fetch me and as I was getting into the car, I saw Scara Ngobese sitting inside. We drove together to training and the next thing, Scara was training with Orlando Pirates.”
According to Mokoena, Pirates players and officials were convinced the talented midfielder would join the club from Thanda Royal Zulu.
“In the back of my mind, I was thinking Pirates would definitely sign him because, at that time, Scara was one of the hottest prospects around.
“During his first training session, he caused havoc. Players were falling all over the place as he dribbled past everyone with those long legs of his. He was showing his strength, skill and confidence.”
Scara dribbled Pirates, says Cheeseboy
Mokoena said Ngobese continued training with Pirates throughout the week, increasing expectations that a deal was imminent.
“I was waiting for confirmation and everyone at the club was excited. But Scara told me, ‘Eish Cheez, there is a problem. My chances of playing here are slim because your wingers are very quick.’ I told him he would definitely get his opportunity.”
However, the situation took an unexpected turn when Scara decided to head to Naturena instead of Mayfair.
“One day Patrick came to fetch me and I assumed we were all heading to Mayfair for training. Suddenly, he made a turn-off in Southgate and dropped Scara off at Naturena.
“When I asked what was going on, Patrick told me that Scara had signed for Kaizer Chiefs.”
Mokoena said Scara did inform them later that day, he joined Chiefs instead of Pirates.
Ngobese would go on to become a cult hero at Chiefs, dazzling supporters with his unique style and unforgettable moments before his untimely passing in 2010.