Orlando Pirates may have unearthed a special talent in Thapelo Mokobodi. The 23-year-old midfielder has made an impressive start to life at the club since joining from Stellenbosch FC, quickly establishing himself as one of the team’s most exciting performers.
His influence was particularly evident in Saturday’s Soweto Derby, where he delivered a masterclass, providing two assists as Pirates claimed a 2-1 victory over Kaizer Chiefs at a packed FNB Stadium. It was a performance that underlined his ability to rise to the occasion and make a decisive contribution when the stakes are highest.
Mokobodi’s numbers further illustrate his growing influence. In 14 appearances for the Buccaneers this season, he has scored two goals and registered four assists. His consistent displays have also seen him emerge as a regular contender for Man of the Match honours.
Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou knows the midfielder’s qualities well, having worked with him at Marumo Gallants. Ouaddou revealed that he first noticed Mokobodi when he was training separately from the club’s main group after the coach’s arrival.
The coach organised a friendly match for the players who had been sidelined and was immediately impressed by what he saw. He also identified right-back Khumbulani Ncube, with both players going on to help Gallants secure their PSL status.
Ouaddou was therefore pleased when Pirates secured Mokobodi’s services, having already seen what he could bring to a team.
“He is a box-to-box midfielder, somebody who is able to cover distances. He is clever and can see things before receiving the ball. He can score, assist and recover the ball,” said Ouaddou.
The coach also highlighted the midfielder’s character and professionalism, qualities that have helped him settle into his new environment.
“He is a professional. He has strong values as a human being. He is very respectful of his teammates and very respectful of the club.”
Ouaddou is clearly convinced that Mokobodi has a bright future ahead of him.
“I predict a great future for this boy, and he is definitely one of the best midfielders in the country,” he added.
While Thalente Mbatha remains ahead in the conversation around box-to-box midfielders at both club and national-team level, Mokobodi is increasingly making a strong case for himself. At just 23, his energy, intelligence, work rate and growing contribution in the final third make him a player worth watching.
In my opinion, Pirates may finally have found a midfielder who can remind supporters of Oupa Manyisa. Manyisa brought composure, intelligence, creativity and an ability to influence games at both ends of the pitch. It is still early in Mokobodi’s Pirates career, and comparisons of that magnitude should be made cautiously, but there are encouraging similarities in the way he connects the team’s play and dictates moments in midfield.
The Soweto Derby offered another glimpse of his potential. Producing two assists in such a high-pressure fixture speaks to his confidence, decision-making and ability to deliver on the biggest stage.
If he continues on this trajectory, Mokobodi could develop into one of the finest midfielders in the country. For now, Pirates supporters have every reason to be excited about what lies ahead.
Written by: Sandile Ndumo
