Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has lauded Mbekezeli Mbokazi for his stunning winning goal against Siwelele in the Carling Knockout round of 16 match at Orlando Stadium on Saturday.
The young defender’s goal not only sealed the win for the Buccaneers but also showcased his exceptional skill and confidence on the pitch as the Buccaneers won 1-0.
According to the former Marumo Gallants coach, Mbokazi’s goal was no surprise, given his impressive form in training.
“I think I’m not surprised because he has a very, very strong shot and he shows it many times in training,” Ouaddou said after the game.
“He decided to take a shot from 40 yards, and he showed all his qualities. He is a guy who believes in himself, and you cannot take a shot from 40 yards if you don’t trust or believe in yourself.”
Mbokazi’s goal was reminiscent of his first goal for the Buccaneers last season in the Nedbank Cup against SuperSport United, where he scored a striking effort that left Ricardo Goss with no chance to save it.
However, the difference between the two goals is that Mbokazi was inside the 18-yard box when he scored against Amatsatsantsa a Pitoli.
The 20-year-old defender has been known for taking shots from outside the box, and his efforts have finally paid off. He even attempted a similar shot for Bafana Bafana against Nigeria, but did not score.
The win against Siwelele has provided a significant boost for the Buccaneers as they advance to the quarterfinal of the Carling Knockout. Ouaddou believes that Mbokazi’s goal will positively impact the team’s morale.
“It’s really a goal that thrives all the whole team, it gives happiness to the players and the fans as well,” he stated.
“You can see that the danger can come from anywhere now in our team, and it’s not only the strikers and midfielders – the weapon can come from anyone.”
Mbokazi is set to join his teammates in Bafana Bafana on Monday as they prepare for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Zimbabwe and Rwanda.
However, Bafana Bafana may face a challenge as Relebohile Mofokeng was substituted by Kamogelo Sebelebele after 60 minutes due to an injury.
The Moroccan mentor refrained from commenting on the extent of Mofokeng’s injury, stating, “To be honest, for now we just finished the game and I cannot tell you anything about Rele. I think he played one hour, he did well, and I’m happy about what he did, and we’ll see the issue to see if he’s ok or not. But for me, he played one hour, and I don’t have anything to say about his injury for now.”
The Buccaneers will now shift their focus to the upcoming CAF Champions League second preliminary round match against DRC giants FC Saint-Éloi Lupopo.
The first leg match is scheduled for 17 October away from home, and the team aims to make a strong impression as they seek to progress to the next round.
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