Orlando Pirates are set to introduce young talent Mbekezeli Mbokazi, 19, to their first team. This move comes in response to a growing defensive crisis, as three senior centre-backs—Olisa Ndah, Tapelo Xoki, and Sandile Mthethwa—are sidelined due to injuries. Coach Joseph Riveiro has turned to Mbokazi, who has captained the DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) side, to fill the gap.

DDC coach Joseph Makhanya praised Mbokazi’s rise, stating, “This platform was created for young talents like Mbekezeli. His progress has been incredible since his debut last season. Coming from Hluhluwe, he struggled with tactics at first, but once comfortable, he became a leader.”

With his promotion imminent, Mbokazi is set to bolster Pirates’ defensive line in upcoming matches, including their Carling Black Label Cup opener against Magesi FC.

Injury Crisis: Pirates’ Latest Updates The injury list continues to trouble Orlando Pirates, with several key players set to miss out.

1. Olisa Ndah: The Nigerian international has suffered a tibia fracture and is expected to be sidelined for the rest of the year. Surgery is being considered, but no decision has been made yet.


2. Tapelo Xoki: Recently cleared for full training, Xoki is focusing on agility drills before returning to friendly matches.


3. Sandile Mthethwa: Out with an abdominal muscle strain, he is undergoing rehabilitation.


4. Zakhele Lepasa and Goodman Mosele: Both are in the intermediate rehabilitation phase, working on strength training and running.


5. Bandile Shandu: Back in full training and gradually increasing match fitness, having already played 35 minutes in friendlies.


6. Thalente Mbatha: Continues to recover from an injury sustained in Pirates’ MTN8 victory over Stellenbosch FC.


7. Thabiso Lebitso and Ethan Visagie: Both are progressing through rehabilitation for hamstring and ankle injuries, respectively.



As Pirates prepare for their next fixtures, these injury concerns put even more pressure on the young talents stepping up from the DDC, like Mbokazi, to fill the void.