Former Kaizer Chiefs defender Tsepo Masilela believes Bafana Bafana star Mbekezeli Mbokazi has what it takes to play in one of the world’s top leagues.
Masilela’s comments come after South Africa‘s impressive FIFA World Cup campaign, which ended in the Round of 32. Mbokazi was one of Bafana’s standout performers throughout the tournament and was widely regarded as the team’s best player.
Speaking to SoccerBeat, Masilela praised the current crop of defenders and believes Bafana’s future at the back is in safe hands.
“Definitely we are in good shape. It’s good also because there’s competition when you mention the likes of Ndamane, Olwethu and Okon. He just came in and he’s done well also,” Masilela said.
“When you are talking about Mbokazi, for me, he is the complete package. He can play diagonal passes, split the lines, strike the ball and he’s brave. He has a big heart.
“Towards the dying minutes, he decided, ‘Let me go and play up front.’ He almost created a goal there. It shows that he is a winner. When you look at Mbokazi, you see a winner. He demands that everyone around him pushes and raises their level.”
Mbokazi praised after World Cup performance
Masilela added that Mbokazi has very few weaknesses in his game and backed the Orlando Pirates defender to succeed at the highest level.
“Even though he’s not the tallest defender, he competes with physically strong strikers and holds his own. That’s why I believe he can play in one of the biggest leagues in the world,” Masilela said.