Orlando Pirates star player Mbekezeli Mbokazi has reportedly been withdrawn for the upcoming U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The 19-year-old was selected to take part in the tournament, but it appears the Buccaneers have had a change of heart. The tournament, which takes places in Egypt, kicks off on 27 April.
Mbokazi was set to join the team on camp in Johannesburg on 20 April 2025 but with Orlando Pirates having to play key fixtures, the Soweto giants decided to withdraw him from the AFCON. According to FARPost, Shandre Campbell is another player set to miss the tournament.
Orlando Pirates will have Mbokazi for Soweto derby
“On the dates when the U-20 AFCON tournament will be underway in Egypt, Pirates are set to play some crucial fixtures. This includes the back-to-back Soweto Derby against rivals Kaizer Chiefs. Both in the Betway Premiership and the Nedbank Cup final in Durban. The Buccaneers are also in the semi-finals of the CAF Confederation Cup.
Another player who is set to miss the tournament is star player Shandre Campbell, who was also not released by Club Brugge in Belgium. The tournament falls outside the FIFA International calendar,” the publication said.
Since Mbokazi made his debut for Orlando Pirates, they are yet to lose a match, The 19-year-old has been rock solid in defence since making his debut a few weeks ago.
Should Mbokazi have gone to the AFCON?
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