Defensive general Mbekezeli Mbokazi leads the Buccaneers’ charge

Much like the Great Wall of China, built to endure centuries of sieges and to hold firm against invaders, Mbekezeli Mbokazi has been a towering presence at the heart of Orlando Pirates’ defence, driving the team forward from the back as they continue to climb the league table.

Oswin Appollis provided the decisive moment with a late strike, sealing an away victory and extending his impressive start in the colours of the Soweto giants following his switch from Polokwane City.

Pirates are now enjoying a run of four successive wins, all without conceding, after opening the season with two defeats. Their ability to bounce back and grind out results against difficult opposition has reignited their push up the standings and shown a newfound resilience within the squad.

With their long-term goal set firmly on lifting the league title, the 1-0 win over Siwelele FC carries added weight. In past seasons, such tight contests often ended goalless and came back to haunt them later. This time, even without their best performance, they dug deep and found a way through against a well-organised side led by Lehlohonolo Seema. 

The old adage that clean sheets win matches has never rung truer. Pirates’ defensive foundation has been key, with Mbokazi and Lebone Seema forming a reliable central pairing. Beyond shutting out opponents, they have also been instrumental in initiating attacking moves from deep.

Mbokazi, who walked away with the Player of the Match award, underlined why he is widely regarded as one of the brightest young defenders in South African football.

At just 19 years old, he continues to grow in stature, showing once again that he will be a crucial figure in Pirates’ campaign, especially as their new recruits begin to settle in and strengthen the squad.

Speaking after another commanding display, the Bafana Bafana defender expressed his satisfaction with the result.

“We are thankful for today’s win,” Mbokazi told SuperSport TV after his sides win.

“The guys did not give up, even though we did not get chances to score, we kept on trying, and at the end, it was our teamwork that managed to help us cross the line.”

The Sea Robbers struggled to carve out opportunities on the night, with Siwelele showing discipline and matching them tactically. It took until the final ten minutes for Pirates to find their breakthrough, with Appollis stepping up to deliver the decisive strike.

Mbokazi praised the persistence of his teammates and saluted Appollis’ winner.

“With us not managing to create chances, it did not mean that we had given up. With the unity we had in the team nothing was impossible, and that helped us get the win.

“It was a beautiful goal. As the game was heading towards the end without us getting any clear chances, we had a chat as a team that we should be a bit more direct so that we can create more opportunities. That helped us get the balls close to the box, and being more direct helped us get the goal.”