Lucky Lekgwathi Confident Pirates’ Defence Will Thrive After Mbokazi Exit

Orlando Pirates legend Lucky Lekgwathi has thrown his full support behind the club’s defensive unit following the confirmed departure of centre-back Mbekezeli Mbokazi. The highly rated defender is set to complete a move to Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire after the Africa Cup of Nations. His exit comes during a period when Pirates are producing some of the best defensive numbers in the league. For Lekgwathi, the timing is challenging but far from alarming.

Pirates head into the December and January break at the top of the Betway Premiership standings. Under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, the team has conceded just five goals all season, the best record in the league. This defensive strength has played a central role in an already successful campaign. The Buccaneers have lifted three trophies, the MTN8, the Carling Knockout, and the Carling Black Label Cup. Much of that success has been built on control, structure, and consistency at the back.

Lekgwathi believes squad competition is the foundation of this defensive stability. He explained that Pirates have depth in every position, which pushes players to perform at a high level every week. In central defence alone, the club can call on Olisa Ndah, Thabiso Sesane, Nkosinathi Sibisi, and Tapelo Xoki. According to Lekgwathi, this depth ensures there is no drop in quality when changes are made. He is confident that whoever steps in will understand the system and deliver the same standard Mbokazi provided.

The former Pirates captain also pointed to recent matches as proof that the team can cope without Mbokazi. He noted that when the defender was unavailable before his departure, the pairing of Sibisi and Lebone Seema handled the responsibility well. Pirates kept clean sheets during that period, showing that the defensive structure remains intact regardless of personnel changes. This ability to adapt has become a hallmark of the current squad.

Lekgwathi also highlighted the influence of head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou on the team’s defensive success. He explained that coaches often emphasize areas of the game they mastered as players. Ouaddou, a former defender, brings that mindset into his coaching. His understanding of positioning, timing, and organisation has clearly filtered through to the squad. Lekgwathi stressed that Ouaddou was not just a defender, but a high-level one, which makes his guidance even more valuable.

This defensive focus has given Pirates a clear identity. The team defends as a unit, protects central areas, and limits opponents to low-quality chances. Full-backs and midfielders contribute consistently, reducing pressure on the centre-backs. This collective approach is why Pirates have remained solid despite injuries, rotation, and now a major transfer departure.

As Mbokazi prepares for the next chapter of his career in the United States, Pirates appear well equipped to move forward. Lekgwathi’s backing reflects confidence built on evidence, not sentiment. With strong competition, a clear system, and a coach who understands defensive excellence, Pirates are positioned to maintain their dominance at the back. For the Buccaneers, the challenge now is to sustain this level and convert defensive strength into continued success across all competitions.