Chaine reveals what Pirates will miss most about MLS-bound Mbokazi

Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Sipho Chaine has opened up about the qualities the team will sorely miss as defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi prepares for his move to Major League Soccer (MLS) side Chicago Fire FC.

The left-footed centre-back played his final match for Ezimnyama Ngenkani this past Saturday, leading the club as captain to a decisive victory over Marumo Gallants in the Carling Knockout Cup final at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium.

Mbokazi will join the Chicago Fire camp after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) set to be played in Morocco between December and January.

Ending his tenure by proudly lifting silverware with the armband was a storybook farewell, but for his teammates, the gap will be felt most strongly off the pitch.

Chaine explained that while Mbokazi’s talent is evident, his irreverent and commanding personality is what made him indispensable to the squad dynamic.

“WE’LL MISS HIS CRAZINESS”: CHAINE DETAILS WHAT PIRATES WILL LOSE IN MBOKAZI

“His presence in the dressing room, how he’s crazy and how he jokes around with everyone,” Chaine stated.

“He’s been a really important piece of the puzzle in the group. He brought his own Mbekezeli in the group.”

Chaine concluded that the defender’s commitment to being authentic was his greatest contribution to the team environment.

“I think the most important thing is that in a team, everyone must bring himself. That’s the most important thing we’ll miss about him.”