Pirates Coach Ouaddou Gives Straightforward Evaluation of Mbekezeli Mbokazi

• Abdeslam Ouaddou comments on Mbekezeli Mbokazi's performance against Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8
• The South African international has become a regular starter for Pirates since breaking into the first team last season
• The Moroccan coach suggested that the Bafana Bafana star is ready for a move to Europe due to his performance

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has shared his thoughts about Mbekezeli Mbokazi after the South African international's performance against Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 semi-final first leg.

The Bafana Bafana star was named the vice captain of the Sea Robbers this season and has started the season well despite Pirates' poor start in the Betway Premiership.

Sundowns were the first to score in the first leg at Orlando Stadium through Teboho Mokoena's header, and they were close to winning the tie before Kamogelo Sebelebele levelled the score line before the final whistle.

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Ouaddou rates Mbokazi's performance against Sundowns

Ouaddou, who joined Pirates this summer, showered praises on Mbokazi for his performance against Sundowns, though he's being cautious as hailing a player could make them relax and stop working hard to be better.

"Let me be completely honest, sometimes you have to be cautious with praise because it can make a player relax and stop pushing themselves," Ouaddou said.

"But when you’re coaching and someone is performing well, acknowledging their effort can do wonders for their confidence and self-belief.

"Take Mbokazi, for example. If he keeps putting in the work, remains disciplined, and lives like a true professional, I genuinely believe he has a bright future ahead."

Speaking further on Mbokazi performance, Ouaddou claimed that the South African international is ready to move to Europe.

"What I saw from him again today was exceptional, the kind of performance you'd expect from a player ready to compete at the highest level in Europe," he added.

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"We're proud to have him here at Orlando Pirates, one of Africa’s biggest clubs, but the key is consistency. He has to stay focused and keep pushing forward."

Some of Pirates fans disagree with Ouaddou for his submission about Mbokazi ready for Europe as they pointed a flaw in his game.

Fans react to Ouaddou's assessment on Mbokazi

Vuyisanani Jama Ntentule disagree with Ouaddou:

"No EUROPEAN team will take a centre back that can’t deal with crosses/set plays. The amount of free-headers today alone should be a warning."

@maratadiji said:

"Europe there is no air gap Chairman who control referee, so he won't be kicking opponents and get away with it."

Silas wale Petanenge🇿🇦 shared:

"Not every good player deserve to be playing in Europe, ask Teboho Mokoena."

Doctor's Note reacted:

"If he performs well in AFCON in December, then he's definitely going to Europe in January."

maetsebane added:

"There's a lot that happening in eSgodini, Kaizer Chiefs neighbours are celebrating draw, mighty Bucs are fallen."

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Ex-Pirates star leaves Mamelodi Sundowns

Briefly News also reported that a former Orlando Pirates star has left Sundowns for a lucrative move abroad.

The South African international joined Sundowns last two seasons from the Sea Robbers.

Source: Briefly News