Mbekezeli Mbokazi: Orlando Pirates Legend Compares Bafana Bafana Star to World Cup Winner
- Mbekezeli Mbokazi has been compared to a Real Madrid legendary defender by a former Orlando Pirates midfielder
- The South African defender put in a good performance during Bafana Bafana's win over Angola in the AFCON 2025 opener
- The Sea Robbers legend's comments about the young Bafana Bafana star sparked mixed reactions on social media
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Former Orlando Pirates midfielder Benedict Vilakazi has likened Bafana Bafana young defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi to Brazilian icon and World Cup champion Roberto Carlos.
Source: Getty Images
The South African international delivered a standout performance in defence as Bafana Bafana edged Angola 2–1 in their Group B opening match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Monday, December 22, 2025.
Earlier this month, the former Orlando Pirates defender found himself on the wrong side of Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos due to his late arrival at camp. However, the recently signed Chicago Fire player quickly moved past the setback and played his part in South Africa’s win over the Palancas Negras.
Vilakazi compares Mbokazi to Carlos
Vilakazi confidently suggested that Mbokazi rivalled the ex-Real Madrid left-back, Roberto Carlos, following a spectacular effort that hammered the crossbar from more than 40 yards away.
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Tso described Mbokazi as a commanding presence, saying the defender already plays with greater composure than Ngezana. He highlighted how Mbokazi consistently supports the back line, offering cover for Ngezana while showing confidence on the ball and sharp awareness when regaining possession.
He also drew attention to Mbokazi’s attacking ability, pointing to a particular strike and questioning whether any defender currently is capable of hitting the ball with such authority. Tso suggested that the last player he remembered having produced something similar was Roberto Carlos, referencing football history to emphasise the rarity of the moment.
According to Tso, it is uncommon to see centre-backs attempt, let alone execute, shots of that quality, again mentioning Roberto Carlos as the closest comparison from the past.
He added that Mbokazi is still developing and believes the young defender is a player who must be protected at all costs, especially from injury.
Source: Getty Images
In a light-hearted remark, Tso said losing Mbokazi alongside Tebza (Teboho Mokoena) and Ronwen Williams would be too much for him to handle, joking that such a scenario might land him in hospital.
Here is what fans are saying on social media about Tso's opinion on likening Mbokazi to former Real Madrid defender Carlos.
Mothupi Ernest Marumo said:
"Vilakazi is struggling as an analyst. He is always off target. He should take up something as a hobby."
🌹Mai Zuzu🌹 shared:
"That boy is super awesome. I really wished he had gone to Belgium, the Netherlands or Portugal."
Gushungo Washington wrote:
"Alex,Luiz,Kompany?? And Tso says he hasn't seen any CB taking powerful shots since the retirement of RC😂"
Cadre Prince ll commented:
"I used to take those shots while playing for my team in the village."
Khwathelani Sydney added:
"You're starting now. Even Vincent Kompany used to take those kinds of shots."
Vilakazi speaks about Pirates' treble quest
Briefly News also reported that Vilakazi made a huge claim about his former club, Orlando Pirates, winning the domestic treble this season.
The Soweto giants are currently dominating the Premier Soccer League this season, as they have won three domestic titles so far this campaign.
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Source: Briefly News
