Orlando Pirates didn’t just uncover a gem in Mbekezeli Mbokazi; they found a 20-year-old ready-made for the wider world.
One moment, he was a fresh-faced debutant; the next, he is closing in on a blockbuster switch to Chicago Fire in the USA’s Major Soccer League (MLS)
ORLANDO PIRATES SET TO LOSE MBEKEZELI MBOKAZI
Eight months, on 5 March 2025, the Buccaneers beat Chippa United 1-0 in what was his first match as a top-flight footballer.
From that debut, his rise became a sprint. He captained South Africa’s U20s to the COSAFA Championship title, before helping the Buccaneers finish second in the Betway Premiership and fight their way to the CAF Champions League semi-finals.
At 19, Mbokazi stepped out for Bafana Bafana against Mozambique at Peter Mokaba Stadium and didn’t blink. Four caps followed in no time, including a standout display against Nigeria in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
CAF then recognised Mbokazi for the Young African Player of the Year nomination.
Just under a month later, MLS side Chicago Fire have reportedly won the race for his signature with a R51-million move ahead of the January window.
DISCOVERED IN RURAL KWAZULU-NATAL
Langalibalele Sports Academy coach Wonder Mnguni said he first discovered Mbokazi when the youngster joined the academy in mid-2023 and featured in the Engen Knockout Challenge.
Mnguni remembers him as shy off the field but completely transformed on it, saying “whenever he entered the field, he was never quiet; he’d command,” Mnguni told iDiski Times.
The coach added that Mbokazi struggled to speak up for himself, and some local coaches tried to block his move to Durban, until his uncle stepped in to ensure he joined the academy for Engen.
Mnguni says he immediately recognised a rare talent: “I was like, ‘What a talent!’” and only needed to “polish a few little things” before the defender’s rise began.”