Why Orlando Pirates' Talent Has Been Told to Swap PSL for Europe
- An Orlando Pirates player has been urged to consider moving to Europe after his performance for both club and country
- The Soweto giants are one of the top teams in the Premier Soccer League that have a lot of talent in their ranks
- This is not the first time the South African international has been told to work towards moving to Europe
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An Orlando Pirates star has been told to leave the Premier Soccer League giants for a move to Europe after his blistering performance for the South African national team during the international break.
Source: Getty Images
Bafana Bafana earned a deserving 3-0 win over Lesotho in their first match during the break, which took place at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein, South Africa, on Friday, September 5, 2025. They then held Nigeria to a 1-1 draw at the same venue four days later.
The results from both games boost South Africa’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup as they currently sit top of Group C with 17 points, three points clear of second-place side Benin Republic and six ahead of the Super Eagles of Nigeria in third.
The Bafana Bafana squad is mainly made up of players from the South African top-flight league, with a few others plying their trade overseas.
Broos: Mbokazi must move to Europe
After South Africa’s recent encounter with Nigeria, coach Hugo Broos reflected on the contrast in international exposure between the two sides and why it plays such a key role.
“When you look at Nigeria, none of their players come from the local league. Every single one is based abroad, turning out for big clubs like Atalanta, AC Milan, and Fulham,” Broos explained.
"That doesn’t mean we’re at a disadvantage, though. We also have quality footballers, really talented ones.”
The Belgian coach emphasised that although the PSL offers strong competition, it still cannot replicate the intensity and standard of European football, which he views as vital for growth.
He went on to highlight how South African players remain relatively unknown outside the country.
Broos pointed to Mbekezeli Mbokazi as a prime example of this challenge. He noted that while the youngster has the talent to succeed at the highest level, his development will depend on gaining international exposure.
Source: Getty Images
The Bafana Bafana coach then urged the Pirates academy graduate to consider moving to Europe, as it would be a massive boost to his career and expose South African footballing talents.
“Take a player like Mbokazi; he needs to test himself in Europe,” the former Cameroon national team coach stressed.
“He’s only 19, but you can already see the maturity in his game. Despite this being just his third appearance for the national team, he plays with the composure of someone far more experienced.
"If players like him can take that step abroad next year, it will be a massive boost not only for their careers but for South African football as a whole.”
Bafana face new threat on WCQ
Briefly News earlier reported that Bafana Bafana are facing a new threat concerning fielding an ineligible player during their World Cup qualifier.
Broos' side are close to securing qualification for the World Cup next year, but faces sanctions over points deduction
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Source: Briefly News
