Bafana Bafana defender and ex-Orlando Pirates star Mbekezeli Mbokazi is already a huge name in South Africa. With links to big European clubs, his name could become a household one further afield.

What would Mbokazi cost in today’s terms?

In today’s financial climate, elite European clubs can part ways with €20m (R369 million) and not consider it much of a risk. In fact, it could turn out to be an incredibly shrewd investment with massive upside. 21-year-old Mbekezeli Mbokazi could easily start to outgrow his surroundings in the United States MLS at Chicago Fire. What are his next stepping stones?

South Africa fell in love with TLB at the World Cup

Although our national side fell short against Canada in the World Cup knockout stages, there were crumbs of comfort, notably the stellar displays of Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who emerged as arguably the biggest positive of the tournament for Bafana. The 21-year-old Chicago Fire star is already a celebrity around South Africa and parts of the USA. Nicknamed ‘TLB’ for his aggressive, heavy-duty playing style, Mbokazi is also a wonderfully clean distributor of the ball with that sexy left foot.

Orlando Pirates gear up for Kaizer Chiefs test soon

Next up for the defending Betway Premiership champions and Mbokazi’s alma mater is the second leg of their CAF Champions League qualifier against African Stars on Friday, 23 October. The Buccaneers hold a 1-0 aggregate lead, and kickoff is at 19:30. After that, it’s the small matter of a Soweto Derby with Kaizer Chiefs on Saturday, 31 October at 15:30.