Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos believes Mbekezi Mbokazi has all the attributes to become one of South Africa’s finest defenders, but insists the youngster’s long-term future should lie in European football despite his recent move to MLS side Chicago Fire.
Broos had previously been critical of Mbokazi’s decision to leave Orlando Pirates for Chicago Fire, arguing that a move to Europe would have provided a greater platform for his development. While the Belgian coach acknowledges the defender has continued to improve, he still believes Europe’s top leagues offer the ideal environment for the highly-rated centre-back to fulfil his immense potential.
“Mbokazi is a very good player and he’s young. When I see him now compared to nearly a year ago, I think he has become better and better,” Broos said.
The Bafana coach hopes Mbokazi will eventually make the move to one of Europe’s stronger leagues, where he can test himself against higher-quality opposition.
“I really hope that in the next months or year, he goes to a bigger competition where he will be more challenged. That will help him become an even better player than he already is.”
Broos also believes Mbokazi possesses the leadership qualities to become a key figure for both club and country in the years ahead.
“He’s not only a good player, but he can also become a leader later. I expect a lot from him, and I think he can have a fantastic career.”
The 20-year-old has already impressed the national team coach with his physicality, pace and ability on the ball.
“Everybody has already seen it in the games he has played for us. He’s strong, he’s quick and he’s good in his passing. He’s a very good defender.”
Broos is equally excited by the partnership developing at the heart of Bafana’s defence, with Mbokazi and 22-year-old Ime Okon emerging as the country’s next-generation centre-backs.
“With him and Ime, another young player alongside him, I think the future of Bafana Bafana for central defenders is secured.”
The young defensive duo will be put to the test again on Sunday night when Bafana face Canada in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 in Inglewood. South Africa will be aiming to extend their historic run beyond the last 32 after becoming the first Bafana side to reach the knockout stages of the global showpiece.
Written by: Diski Voice
