Orlando Pirates’ Tapelo Xoki remains determined to compete despite mentoring role

Orlando Pirates defender Tapelo Xoki says he has embraced responsibility for guiding the club’s younger players but remains eager to compete for places and play matches.

The 31-year-old has found regular first-team opportunities difficult to secure in recent times, with coach Abdeslam Ouaddou favouring Lebone Seema, Nkosinathi Sibisi and Sibangani Zulu in central defence.

Xoki’s progress has also been disrupted by injury. He spent almost a year on the sidelines before returning towards the end of last season.

“For me it’s just laying the culture of the club out to (youngsters), what’s expected of them as professionals and what it takes to be at this level for a long time,” Xoki said.

The defender made his top-flight debut for AmaZulu in 2014, aged 19, and said his experiences with senior players had shaped his approach to supporting younger teammates.

“Guiding youngsters is a position that I’ve embraced as an individual. When I was young I also had senior players who guided me in the journey … I played with the likes of OJ (Mbulelo Mabizela) and Robyn Johannes (at AmaZulu).

“At that age, they made me realise the importance of having someone senior to guide you, not only in terms of on-field things, but in terms of behaviour as well. So, I’ve embraced that role but I am still also a competitor by nature, so I still want to compete … but I play my role as well as I can.”

Xoki is unlikely to feature when Orlando Pirates meet Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, with the match scheduled to kick off at 6pm.

Sibisi, the Pirates captain, and Seema are expected to form the centre-back pairing for the final.

Despite his limited involvement, Xoki said the entire squad was prepared to contribute as the Buccaneers pursue a fifth successive MTN8 title. Pirates have won the past four editions of the competition.

“Everyone is ready, trying to make sure that they are available for selection. We are looking forward to writing history again for the club… it’s another chance to make history for ourselves and for the club, so we will give our best and make sure that we make our supporters proud,” Xoki told Sowetan.

The defender’s comments underline his dual role within the squad: competing for a place while helping younger players understand the standards expected at Orlando Pirates.