Thapelo Mokobodi has made massive impact on Orlando Pirates’ flying start to this season. The 23-year-old from Sebokeng laid four assists in five league games to win the Betway Premiership September-October Player of the Month.
Mokobodi provided two assists in Pirates’ encounter against Marumo Gallants on 20 September 2026. It was followed by another influential display in the Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs on 31 October, where he registered two more assists.
THAPHELO MOKOBODI’S REMARKABLE RISE
Born in Sebokeng, Gauteng on 11 November 2002, he specialises as a highly mobile central midfielder but also has the tactical flexibility to fill in at right-back.
His early career steps were taken at celebrated Johannesburg amateur side Black Poison FC. He later moved to Marumo Gallants to kick start his professional career.
He gradually established himself as an important first-team player during the 2023/24 and 2024/25 campaigns. His defensive contribution, composure in possession and ability to operate in different positions attracted attention from other clubs in the Premier Soccer League.
In August 2025, Mokobodi secured a move to Stellenbosch FC after impressing at Marumo Gallants.
He spent one season with the Western Cape outfit, making 28 appearances across all competitions. During that period, he helped Stellenbosch reach the 2025 MTN8 final and gained valuable continental experience with six appearances in the CAF Confederation Cup.
ORLANDO PIRATES MOVE TAKES CAREER TO NEW LEVEL
His performances earned him another major career opportunity in July 2026 when Orlando Pirates secured his services on a permanent transfer.
The Buccaneers handed Mokobodi a long-term contract running until June 2029 as they strengthened their squad ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
He has since made an impression in the Pirates midfield. His four assists in five Premiership appearances proved further evidence of his growing influence.
The September and October Player of the Month award is another milestone in the young midfielder’s career. He will aim to establish himself at one of the biggest clubs in South African football.
