‘Mbokazi has to go to Europe!’ Pirates told after another excellent display by teenager

Orlando Pirates teenager Mbekezeli Mbokazi should be playing in Europe, according to Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos.

The 19-year-old put up a decent shift on Tuesday night as South Africa played to a 1-1 draw with the Super Eagles of Nigeria in Group C's FIFA World Cup qualifier staged at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein.

A William Troost-Ekong own goal gave the hosts a deserved lead halfway through the first half, before Calvin Bassey responded later on. Replays suggested that the goal shouldn't have stood since he used his arm to guide the ball home.

Nevertheless, it was a massive result for Mzansi, who are on the verge of playing in the World Cup for the first time since 2010.

Mbokazi wins the hearts again

One of the players who shone against the Super Eagles was Bucs' youngster Mbokazi, who put up a Man-of-the-Match display despite facing a strong and experienced opposition. He was rewarded for his excellent display.

Coach Broos now insists the youngster should not be plying trade in the Premier Soccer League, and that he deserves to be playing in Europe.  

“Mbokazi, this guy has to go to Europe, he’s 19 years old, you see the way he is playing, it’s like he has 10 years of experience at this level, it’s his second, third game with the national team – third game! You see how he’s playing,” he told the media.

“So let’s hope that some players can do the next step here [move to Europe] it will be very good for South African football really,” the Belgian concluded.

Mbokazi has now played four matches for Bafana Bafana across all competitions.