Mbekezeli Mbokazi has revealed one factor that has fast-tracked his progress in the Orlando Pirates first team after delivering yet another Man-of-the-Match performance.
Pirates reduced the gap between Sundowns and themselves to 12 points (with three matches in hand) with a 1-0 win over Polokwane City at Old Peter Mokaba Stadium on Saturday.
Although Nkosinathi Sibisi scored the winning goal, it was his fellow teammate, Mbokazi, who was awarded the Man of the Match award after a standout display in the heart of the defence.
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The accolade was a third for the 19-year-old since making his senior debut last month.
Notably, Pirates are yet to lose a match when Mbokazi has featured.
"Firstly, I want to thank my coaches and my teammates for the work we have done together," said the steely defender, speaking to SuperSport TV.
"For me, it is sometimes easier to play with older players. For example, when I play along with 'Bhodlela' Sibisi) or 'TP' (Tapelo Xoki), it's easier for me because what boosts my self-belief is knowing that they will help me.
"When I do the things I've been doing, I have no fear because I know if you play with fear, too many mistakes might happen. But because my teammates have given me the licence to say 'do whatever you to do,' that is what has helped me play with confidence.
"I'm not afraid of anything. My teammates are here, guiding me and everything becomes easier," he continued.
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Mbokazi is tipped to be in line for a Bafana Bafana call-up and will likely be part of the South Africa U20 squad that will travel to North Africa for the U20 Africa Cup of Nations to be played later this month.