Young Bafana Bafana defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi scored a cracker against Panama in Cape Town.
Image: Ayanda Ndamane Independent Newspapers
South Africa national football team defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi has defended his side’s performance following their defeat to Panama national football team, insisting the result does not reflect the overall display.
Bafana Bafana fell to the Central American outfit at the DHL Stadium on Tuesday, having earlier played out a draw in the first friendly at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Both matches formed part of preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where South Africa will be among the nations aiming to make an impression on the global stage.
Despite the defeat, Mbokazi emerged as one of the standout performers, netting a stunning equaliser before Panama went on to claim the win.
With some questioning the result, the 20-year-old was quick to offer a more measured assessment of the team’s performance.
“I am happy to be back and to link up with players I’m used to playing with, as it’s been a while,” Mbokazi said on SABC Sport.
“It motivates me to keep working hard and shows that there is still a chance for me to be part of this group.”
The former Orlando Pirates defender emphasised the importance of cohesion within the squad, pointing to unity as a key factor behind their displays.
“We played well today, and rallying together is the main reason we perform,” he added.
“Losing this game does not mean we played badly.”
Mbokazi also suggested that the defeat could serve as a valuable lesson as Bafana continue to build towards the World Cup.
“We will keep pushing as a team, and maybe this loss will encourage us not to lose in upcoming matches,” he said.
Now plying his trade with Chicago Fire FC in Major League Soccer, Mbokazi believes his growing experience abroad can contribute positively to the national team setup.
“The experience I have gained in the few games there maybe will help me contribute to the team during the World Cup,” he explained.
His development comes at a crucial time for Bafana, who are looking to assemble a competitive squad capable of holding their own against the world’s best.
South Africa are set to open their World Cup campaign against co-hosts Mexico national football team on June 11, in what will be a significant test of their progress under Hugo Broos.
For Mbokazi, the focus remains clear — continue improving, build on valuable international exposure, and contribute to a team determined to prove its worth on football’s biggest stage.
While the result against Panama may not have gone their way, the defender’s message is one of perspective — performance, progress and belief remain firmly intact.