Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has identified two of his players, Neo Rapoo and Nkosikhona Ndaba, for potential call-ups to the senior Bafana Bafana national team. The duo have shown impressive form at Orlando Pirates and are now being tipped as future stars of South African football.
Neo Rapoo, 20, recently joined the Soweto giants from Siwelele FC after playing a key role in helping his former club preserve their top-flight status in the Betway Premiership. He was also part of the SA Under-20 national team that claimed the AFCON title and qualified for the FIFA U20 World Cup.
Nkosikhona Ndaba, 23, has been an integral part of Orlando Pirates' treble-winning campaign this season, registering three assists in 19 appearances. His performances have not gone unnoticed by Ouaddou, who believes both players possess the qualities needed to succeed at the highest level.
Ouaddou on what can unlock senior honours
Ouaddou praised Rapoo and Ndaba for thriving under his demanding tactical approach while maintaining a high standard of performance. He highlighted their attacking contributions, noting that they are comfortable operating in the final third, creating chances with quality deliveries, and even scoring goals. Ouaddou singled out Rapoo's effectiveness from set-pieces as another major strength.
The coach added that Rapoo's qualities would be valuable to the squad during a demanding fixture schedule. Beyond his footballing ability, Ouaddou praised the defender's professionalism and character, expressing confidence in his future success at both club and international level.
Rapoo's arrival adds depth to Pirates squad
With Orlando Pirates competing across multiple fronts in the coming season, Ouaddou stressed that Rapoo's versatility and set-piece ability would contribute meaningfully to the group's overall depth. The coach's public endorsement places significant expectation on both youngsters ahead of what could be a defining season for their careers at club and potentially international level.
Bafana star leaves Sundowns for PSL rivals
Briefly News also reported that a Bafana Bafana star has decided to leave Mamelodi Sundowns for the second season running, joining Premier Soccer League rivals. The South African international is one of the few players leaving the CAF Champions League champions this summer ahead of the 2026-27 season.
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