Lebohang Mokoena tips Cemran Dansin for bigger Orlando Pirates role and Bafana Bafana call-up

The 21-year-old Bucs midfielder caught the eye after being handed the captain's armband during Pirates' 1-0 friendly victory over Spanish outfit Las Palmas, a gesture Mokoena believes highlights the faith the club's technical team has in the youngster.

Dansin also featured off the bench in Pirates' final pre-season outing, a narrow 1-0 defeat to Saudi Arabian side Neom Sports Club, capping off an encouraging tour that has strengthened his case for regular game time.

Speaking on the Soccer Beat podcast, Mokoena said the decision to entrust Dansin with the captaincy at such a young age speaks volumes about his character and leadership qualities.

"I'm definitely expecting more minutes for him," said Mokoena.

"The fact that he was given the armband shows that there is a sense from the technical team and the players around him that they see leadership qualities both on and off the field."

Mokoena believes the responsibility will only accelerate Dansin's development and boost his confidence heading into the new season.

"I feel he is on the right stepping stone. Giving a young player the armband in a friendly at this age boosts his confidence and also gives him more responsibility," he continued.

"I saw him all over the place. He was working hard and at some stage he was cramping, but he continued to play. That shows heart, and it's exciting for a boy like Dansin to get that opportunity and more minutes."

The former Pirates midfielder also backed Dansin to force his way into the senior South African national team if he continues to develop.

"I'm sure if he does well this season, he might even get a call-up to Bafana Bafana," Mokoena concluded.

Dansin has been part of the Pirates senior team since his promotion in the 2024/25 season after his sterling performances for the club's DStv Diski Challenge (DDC) team where he was the captain.