Egypt Edges South Africa as Mbokazi Shines in Defensive Display

Posted : 27 December 2025

South Africa’s young centre-back, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, delivered a composed and confident performance despite Bafana Bafana’s 1-0 defeat to a 10-man Egypt in Agadir on Friday.

The goal came from a contentious penalty scored by Mohamed Salah, but Mbokazi’s defensive display stood out, showcasing his maturity and leadership at the back against one of Africa’s most dangerous forwards.

Salah operated from Egypt’s right side, forcing Bafana’s attacking left-back, Aubrey Modiba, and Mbokazi at left centre-back to cover significant ground.

The 20-year-old, who recently joined Chicago Fire from Orlando Pirates and is affectionately known as “TLB,” was tasked with neutralizing Salah’s threat, often reading the play well and remaining solid under pressure.

Early in the game, Salah created two near-goal chances within seconds, first trying to set up Mohamed Hamdy, only for a timely challenge from right-back Khuliso Mudau to stop the danger.

Moments later, a cross from Mohamed Hany nearly reached Salah, but the attempt went just wide. Mbokazi remained calm and positioned perfectly throughout these early surges.

Acting as the anchor of South Africa’s defence, Mbokazi made crucial interventions, including a key challenge in the 24th minute inside the penalty area. He also contributed to building play from the back, delivering accurate long balls and short passes to maintain possession and relieve pressure.

Around the 30-minute mark, he effectively stopped a counter-attack, marshaling Zizo out of play and winning a throw-in, helping Bafana regain control.

The first half ended in drama, as a handball by Mudau led to the controversial penalty converted by Salah, followed shortly by Mohamed Hany’s dismissal for a foul on Teboho Mokoena.

Even after Egypt was reduced to 10 men, Mbokazi continued to thwart attacks and intercept dangerous passes in the second half, including key challenges on Salah and Ashour that prevented further threats.

His composed positioning allowed Modiba and right centre-back Siyabonga Ngezana to focus more effectively on their roles.

Previously, Mbokazi had faced high-quality opposition such as Ademola Lookman for South Africa, but matching up directly against Salah and Marmoush in the same match presented a unique test. Despite external distractions, including criticism over his Chicago Fire move and delayed arrival to the pre-AFCON camp, he remained unfazed and performed with remarkable maturity.

South Africa has a history of producing talented centre-backs, from the legendary Lucas Radebe to players like OJ Mabizela, who failed to reach their full potential. If Mbokazi continues his current trajectory, he has the tools and talent to establish himself among the elite, following in Radebe’s footsteps.

Egypt Edges South Africa as Mbokazi Shines in Defensive Display

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics