Talking Points: Orlando Pirates' Mbokazi The Player Of The Match Despite Mofokeng Heroics

The Betway Premiership top-of-the-table clash between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns at the FNB Stadium on Saturday was nothing short of exhilarating, but a surprising twist emerged in the quest for the Player of the Match accolade.

From the moment Relebohile Mofokeng struck twice in quick succession, it appeared a forgone conclusion that the award would align with his electrifying performance. However, the honours went to Mbekezeli Mbokazi, the 19-year-old defender recently promoted from Pirates reserve team ranks.

How Mbokazi usurped the Player of the Match accolade from the matchless Mofokeng is one of the takeaways from the weekend's Betway Premiership fixtures, in which Pirates reignited their title chase and the Top 3 race heated up between victors Stellenbosch FC and hosts Sekhukhune United.

The unfolding drama at the FNB Stadium saw Mofokeng, with his two goals, illuminating the pitch in ways few could rival. But while the two-goal hero basked in the glory of goals, Mbokazi's resolute defending and superior performance in the team's rearguard intrigued the judges. In the absence of injured regulars Olisa Ndah and Thabiso Sesane, Mbokazi played a pivotal role in the team's eventual 2-0 win.

A few days ago, national team coach Hugo Broos remarked that theres been a dip in the playing standard of Pirates' goal poacher Mofokeng.