Mokobodi hailed after creating both goals in Soweto Derby victory

Former Orlando Pirates striker Andries Sebola has praised Thapelo Mokobodi after the midfielder played a decisive role in Pirates’ Soweto Derby win over Kaizer Chiefs.

The 23-year-old set up both goals for Yanela Mbuthuma and Tshepang Moremi as Pirates defeated their arch-rivals at FNB Stadium on Saturday.

Mokobodi, who joined Pirates in July, was named Man of the Match on his first appearance in the derby.

Sebola, affectionately known as Local is Lekker, believes the midfielder’s influence will extend well beyond his impressive debut in one of South African football’s biggest fixtures.

“If you can check, the young Mokobodi, you are still going to hear a lot about him,” Sebola said.

“The boy created both goals. I’m not surprised he played so well.

“He’s a real gem, the boy who is not even selfish, the boy who can read the game well, who can see the defence and make the defensive split passes to the strikers to finish.”

Pirates took control after the interval

Sebola said the match changed significantly after half-time, with Kaizer Chiefs creating opportunities in the opening period before Pirates took control.

“It was a typical game of two halves. Chiefs had their chances in the first half, but Pirates dominated the second half. In fact, it could have been 4-1 to Pirates,” he said.

He credited Pirates’ defensive work in midfield for limiting Chiefs’ threat in the second half, particularly after Lebohang Maboe was substituted.

“What Pirates got right was they closed down the spaces in midfield; that’s why Chiefs ended up substituting Lebohang Maboe,” Sebola added.

“He was operating too much in the first half, but nowhere to be seen in the second half.”

Sebola backs Mbuthuma to regain confidence

Sebola also highlighted Mbuthuma’s contribution, saying the striker worked hard and played for the team despite having faced criticism from supporters in the past.

“Mbuthuma tried his best. He was chasing. He was not even selfish when he got the ball,” Sebola said.

“He was laying the ball to the on-coming midfielders to finish. I think he did well.

“The confidence will come back. He will score more goals, I think so.”