Bafana’s New Enforcer: Mbokazi Compared to Roberto Carlos
A player already being likened to Brazilian icon Roberto Carlos does not earn such praise lightly — and Mbekezeli Mbokazi is fast proving why his name is being spoken in rarefied company.
Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has now shed light on what makes the Chicago Fire-bound defender such a special talent, as the 20-year-old prepares for the next chapter of his rapidly accelerating career.
Mbokazi’s rise has been meteoric since making his Buccaneers debut in March. In a matter of months, he established himself as a cornerstone in Pirates’ defence and an increasingly vital figure for Bafana Bafana. That form attracted strong interest from Major League Soccer, with Chicago Fire securing his signature on a deal running until 2029, with a further club option for the 2029/30 season.
Explaining Mbokazi’s value, Ouaddou highlighted how perfectly the youngster fits into the demands of modern football.
“With the way we play — a high block, counter-pressing and attacking football — you take risks,” Ouaddou explained. “You need a central defender with speed because you leave space at the back, and many teams attack you in transition.
“Mbokazi did a fantastic job. When opponents use the space behind us, he wins duels with his pace. He’s comfortable with the ball, he can play short, he can play long, he’s strong on his feet and very good in the air.”
Ouaddou believes Mbokazi’s move to the United States will further sharpen his leadership traits — the final layer in his evolution.
“They will improve him in leadership, commitment and communication between the lines,” he added. “When you push the lines, you need someone who takes responsibility. A central defender sees the whole game — he must command and lead.”
While Ouaddou focuses on Mbokazi’s tactical growth, South African football legend Benedict Vilakazi has been captivated by something even rarer: his power and presence.
In just 39 senior appearances for Pirates, Mbokazi has combined composure, physical authority and intelligence — traits that were on full display during South Africa’s 2–1 AFCON victory over Angola, when he rattled the crossbar with a thunderous long-range strike.
That moment prompted Vilakazi’s unforgettable comparison.
“He is a boss,” Vilakazi said. “He’s even more mature than Siyabonga Ngezana in how he organises and covers the defence. And that shot — tell me, in today’s game, which defender hits the ball like that? The last one I saw was Roberto Carlos. I honestly can’t remember a centre-back with that kind of power and technique.”
For Vilakazi, Mbokazi’s importance to the national team is already non-negotiable.
“This young man is becoming something special. He must be protected from injury at all costs. If anything happened to him — and to players like Teboho Mokoena or Ronwen Williams — it would be a disaster.”
From Soweto to MLS, and from domestic promise to AFCON authority, Mbokazi’s trajectory suggests South Africa may be witnessing the emergence of a once-in-a-generation defender — one already being spoken of in the same breath as football’s most iconic names.
I honestly likened him to Paolo Maldini than to that of Roberto Carlos who was full of running as a full back.Not that i am trying to oppose Tso.
Maldini was more on reading the game and could manage all attacks from the attackers like Mbokazi does.
This man is great and full of confidence .He can protect his ball and knows when and who to pass the Ball to .Please South Africa let’s protect our young players .More opportunity must be given to young South African with no fear .We have a lot of talent ,Please let’s grow our Football from lower Ranks and we will get at world level within no time .Thanks a lot to those in Power to Change our Football for the Best 👌