Orlando Pirates’ head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou believes the departure of Mbekezeli Mbokazi to Chicago Fire won’t have a negative impact on his team.
This comes after the Buccaneers resumed their 2025/26 Betway Premiership campaign with a disappointing 0-0 draw against Sekhukhune United in Saturday’s encounter at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium.
Mbokazi had established himself as an inspirational captain and consistent performer for Bucs. The 20-year-old defender has since moved to MLS side Fire which saw Ouaddou deploy Nkosinathi Sibisi, and Lebone Seema as his two centre backs against Sekhukhune.
“Yes you know there were many questions around the departure of Mbokazi,” Ouaddou told Goal Mzansi.
“But you know we have a fantastic group, we have good defenders and the guys [Seema and Sibisi] did well today and our philosophy is not counting on one player.
“When we’re strong defensively, when we have clean sheets it’s due to the collective, not only one player. Of course he was important but I’m sure the guys will do a fantastic job, you can see, they proved it today.”
Pirates will be looking to reclaim the Betway Premiership’s top spot when they host Magesi FC at the Orlando Stadium on Saturday, August 31.
