Mbekezeli Mbokazi received an emotional send-off after guiding Orlando Pirates to the Carling Knockout Cup triumph on Saturday evening at the Peter Mokaba Stadium.
The 20-year-old defender capped off his final match for the club in perfect fashion, captaining the Buccaneers to silverware before he departs for Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire after the Africa Cup of Nations.
Mbokazi played the full 120 minutes as Pirates edged Marumo Gallants 1-0 to lift the Carling Knockout Cup.
Since breaking into the first team, the highly rated youngster has now secured two trophies with the Sea Robbers and is set to feature in his first AFCON tournament in a few weeks.
After the final whistle, Mbokazi celebrated passionately with the Pirates faithful, bidding farewell to the club that helped shape his career. Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, was among the dignitaries who congratulated the departing star.
Pirates fans were visibly emotional on X as they paid tribute to a player many regard as one of the club’s best defenders of the past 30 years.
Mbokazi leaves Pirates after less than a year with first team
User @Rooi_1828 posted: “What a way to leave your club after signing a huge international deal. As Orlando Pirates fans we love you, TLB Mbokazi. You leave lifting two trophies.”
User @MetjahTebogo added: “Let’s appreciate Mbokazi. Thank you for all the time you dedicated to our team and for the effort you put in. We will continue to support you wherever you go. What an exceptional player.”
@Just_Kgonthe wrote: “Can you believe Mbokazi has only played 8 months for the Orlando Pirates seniors team but it feels like it’s been years.”