The perfect send-off: Why Mbokazi must lift the Carling Knockout Cup

The New Peter Mokaba Stadium is the setting for an emotional farewell tonight (Saturday) as rising star Mbekezeli Mbokazi plays his final match for Orlando Pirates before heading to the Major League Soccer (MLS) in the USA.

The occasion has prompted former Bafana Bafana forward Sibusiso Vilakazi to weigh in, suggesting nothing less than a Carling Knockout Cup victory would suffice for the young defender’s departure.

The highly anticipated, sold-out final between the Buccaneers and Marumo Gallants kicks off at 18:00, with the spotlight firmly on the 20-year-old Mbokazi.

Pirates confirmed the centre-back’s transfer to MLS side Chicago Fire just days ago, making tonight’s final his swansong for the Soweto giants. Having already secured the MTN8 title this season, a Carling Knockout triumph would provide a “cherry on top” of his impressive, albeit brief, tenure with the Sea Robbers.

The Fairytale Ending For Mbokazi

Speaking to FARPost, former Mamelodi Sundowns attacker Vilakazi articulated the collective desire for a glorious send-off for the stalwart defender, known affectionately as ‘TLB’.

Vilakazi suggested it would be a true “fairytale story” if Mbokazi were to cap his domestic career by lifting the trophy ahead of his new chapter in American football.

“It will be a fairytale story, right? You will have to leave a team that has given you the opportunity,” Vilakazi stated. “Also, he is holding on to the opportunity and making a good volume of performances through his club and the national team.”

The veteran attacker emphasized that the move to Chicago Fire is merely a prelude to a greater career:

“He has a bright future ahead of him. This could be a stepping stone for him, not only in the MLS but also going further, based on what they have seen in him. I think his destiny is more than a stepping stone, and I believe he is a boy who has a good attitude and always strives to be one of the best. The sky is the limit for him, to be honest with you.”

Vilakazi concluded by focusing the final’s narrative on collective effort and ambition: “One would love to have that fairytale story of him lifting the trophy on that day. So, let’s see how his teammates help him achieve this, not only for him but for the Pirates institution overall, to show that they can make it a double and give them a boost going forward…”

The Carling Knockout final therefore, becomes more than just a trophy chase; it is a momentous farewell, setting the standard for Mbokazi’s promising future on the international stage.