Rapoo embracing patience as Pirates competition tests rising star

South Africa Under-23 captain Neo Rapoo says he is prepared to wait for his opportunity at Orlando Pirates, while expressing his gratitude for the support of head coach Ouaddou.

The 21-year-old left-back moved to the Buccaneers from Siwelele FC in June 2026, ahead of the 2026/27 campaign, but has found regular first-team football difficult to secure in Mayfair.

Rapoo has played in seven competitive matches for Orlando Pirates across all competitions. His only start came in the CAF Champions League preliminary round against La Cure Waves.

Experienced defenders Deon Hotto and Nkosikhona Ndaba have been selected ahead of him for the left-back position, but Rapoo says he is using the competition to improve his game rather than becoming frustrated by his limited involvement.

The former SuperSport United academy player is currently away with South Africa Under-23, who are preparing for a decisive two-legged qualifier against Madagascar for the 2027 CAF U-23 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2028 Olympic Games.

Rapoo said the backing he has received from Ouaddou, including suggestions that he could eventually receive a Bafana Bafana call-up, had helped him remain motivated during his adjustment to life at Orlando Pirates.

“I have settled in well. The guys are treating me very well, and they tell me to keep working hard each and every day. I am learning a lot from Hotto and Ndaba because they are doing very well,” Rapoo told journalists at the national team camp on Wednesday.

He acknowledged that his immediate priority was to remain patient and make the most of the opportunities that come his way.

“As a player, I just have to be patient and be grateful for the opportunities I get. The time I play under coach Ouaddou, I am very grateful for the opportunity.

“Having someone who believes in you (Ouaddou) gives you that extra motivation. Even though it is to stay patient, but it’s a thing that I have to work on and just be patient because you learn from the guys that are playing at the moment. Like I said, Ndaba and Hotto. I just need to be patient, keep working hard, and I’ll get my chance.”

Rapoo will now captain Raymond Mdaka’s South Africa Under-23 side in the first leg of their qualifier against Madagascar on Saturday.

The match will be played at Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00. The second leg will also take place at the same venue on Tuesday, 17 November 2026.