Mbokazi shares technique behind wonder-goal against Panama

Bafana Bafana defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi has revealed that his spectacular long-range goal against Panama was a moment of instinct rather than the result of specific training.

The Chicago Fire centre-back scored South Africa’s only goal in their 2-1 friendly loss in Cape Town, unleashing a powerful strike from distance that found the back of the net.

Speaking to SABC TV, Mbokazi explained that while he doesn’t specifically practice such shots, he has a knack for scoring them when the opportunity arises.

Mbokazi opens up on his stunner

“It just happens that I hit the net, even in training,” he said as quoted by iDiski Times. “I won’t say I practice such goals, but when things are aligned, I’m able to score.”

The 20-year-old, formerly of Orlando Pirates, expressed his delight at rejoining the national team for the first time since the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. He urged his teammates not to be discouraged by the defeat.

“I’m happy to be back playing with the guys,” Mbokazi added. “I haven’t played with them in a while, and I’m encouraged to keep on working hard while I still have the chance.”

Impact of MLS on Bafana defender

He also believes his experience in Major League Soccer (MLS) will be a valuable asset for Bafana Bafana ahead of the upcoming World Cup.

“I think we played very well; working together helped us,” he reflected. “Today’s defeat does not mean we are a bad team. We will continue to work together and push. This loss will motivate us to not lose our upcoming matches.”

“The experience I’m gaining over there in the games I have played so far… maybe I’ll be able to help the team with it when we go to the World Cup. I can’t say exactly how, but it might help me help the team.”