Masibusane Zongo defends Sipho Mbule, labels Orlando Prates midfielder a "special talent"

Zongo dismissed claims that the playmaker is "lazy" and instead describing him as one of the most exciting talents in South African football.

Speaking on the Apex International podcast, Zongo, a self-confessed Orlando Pirates supporter, said Mbule's qualities remind him of his former SuperSport Academy teammate and close friend, Thandani "Bibo" Ntshumayelo.

While Ntshumayelo built his professional career as a defensive midfielder, Zongo recalled his creativity and attacking flair in the No.10 role - qualities he sees in Mbule today.

"I think my best signing for this season would be Sipho Mbule. Yoh! When that guy plays, I get excited," Zongo said.

"He makes the same runs and passes I saw from Bibo back in our development days. People don't realise how gifted he is."

Mbule has been gradually winning over critics since joining Pirates after his release from Mamelodi Sundowns, where off-field issues had clouded his reputation.

His resurgence has also been reflected on the international stage, with the 27-year-old returning to the Bafana Bafana setup in the recent 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Nigeria.

"Most people think Mbule is lazy, but we saw him against Nigeria. When he needs to work, he can work," Zongo insisted.

"If you can think before you receive the ball and already know your next move, that's a rare skill."

Zongo, who admits his own career was cut short by off-field distractions, urged Mbule to learn from past players' mistakes and focus on maximizing his current peak years.

"He's at his peak now. He just needs to enjoy himself on the field and express himself," he said.

"Coaches do 30 per cent at training, but the rest is on you when the game starts."

Mbule has also been included in the Bafana squad set to take on Zimbabwe and Rwanda in the last two World Cup qualifiers match.

However, before going to the national team camp, the midfielder will turn his attention to Saturday's Carling Knockout last-16 clash against Siwelele FC at Orlando Stadium, where he'll look to continue his strong form.