Rapoo draws motivation from Ouaddou’s Bafana Bafana prediction

South Africa Under-23 left-back Neo Rapoo says the belief shown in him by Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has strengthened his determination to earn a regular place in the team.

Ouaddou has identified Rapoo and Nkosikhona Ndaba as potential future South Africa senior internationals, a prediction that has encouraged the 21-year-old as he waits for more first-team opportunities.

“I’m grateful that someone believes in me so much because it gives me extra motivation,” Rapoo said. “Although it is difficult to remain patient, that is something I have to work on.

“I need to learn from the players who are playing at the moment, be patient, continue working hard and wait for my opportunities.”

Rapoo joined Pirates from Siwelele during the off-season after helping South Africa win the U20 Africa Cup of Nations. He was also part of the club rebrand that followed the sale of SuperSport United.

The defender developed through the Matsatsantsa academy system and captained the South Africa Under-20 side before establishing himself as one of the country’s most promising young players.

He has made seven appearances for the Pirates first team but has had to wait for chances this season, with Deon Hotto and Ndaba ahead of him in the competition for the left-back position.

Rapoo said he had benefited from working alongside both players since arriving at the club.

“I’ve settled in well. The grootmanne are treating me well and they tell me to keep working hard every day,” he said.

“Now that I’m with the Under-23s, I can say I’ve learned a lot from Hotto and Ndaba. They are doing very well, so as a player I have to be patient, keep working hard and be grateful for every opportunity I receive and every minute I play under coach Ouaddou.”

Rapoo’s next opportunity to press his case will come with the South Africa Under-23 team, who face Madagascar in two Olympic Games qualifiers over the next week.

He is expected to compete with Thato Sibiya for a place in the starting XI. Sibiya plays for LOSC Lille and is currently on loan from Mamelodi Sundowns.

Rapoo said the competition for places was another reason for him to remain focused while continuing to learn from the more experienced players ahead of him at Orlando Pirates.