Orlando Pirates unearth 18-year-old prodigy ‘better than Mbokazi’

Pirates add more young talent to their winning formula

There’s no shortage of talented young defenders representing South Africa. Mbekezeli Mbokazi (20) and Olwethu Makhanya (22) are both based in the United States MLS and will wear Bafana’s colours at the upcoming 2026 World Cup. With Mbokazi sold to the Chicago Fire, Pirates believe they’ve found a youngster to emulate TLB’s extraordinary talent. His name is Sibongakonke Shongwe, from Shining Stars FC, and he’s 18 years old.

Via Soccer Laduma:

“He used to play for Shining Stars. He was supposed to join another team next season. Pirates got him from these LFA games, where there are competitions that they play, and Pirates is also there. So, when they saw him, they signed him right there. He is 18 years old, and he is still at school, and he is still young,” the source said.

Orlando Pirates stars headline Bafana’s World Cup squad

Hugo Broos has announced his 26-man squad to tackle the finest the planet has to offer at the 2026 World Cup. Eight Orlando Pirates players will be boarding the plane, which isn’t a massive shock given their recent title success. They are Sipho Chaine, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Kamogelo Sebelebele, Thalente Mbatha, Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, Relebohile Mofokeng and Evidence Makgopa. Mofokeng got by far the loudest cheer from his peers when Hugo Broos announced the 21-year-old’s name during Wednesday’s ceremony. South Africa meets Nicaragua on Friday in their final friendly action before the showpiece.