Hugo Broos praises Mbekezeli Mbokazi display but stands firm on MLS concerns

The 20-year-old centre-back, regarded as one of the brightest defensive prospects in African football, recently completed a reported 3-million-dollar transfer from Orlando Pirates to MLS side Chicago Fire.

Mbokazi leaves the Buccaneers having won three trophies since breaking into the senior team.

Earlier this month, Broos raised eyebrows when he questioned whether a move to the United States was the right step for Mbokazi's career, suggesting financial considerations may have influenced the decision.

The Belgian also criticised the player's professionalism after he reported late to Bafana camp following Pirates' Carling Knockout Cup triumph.

Despite the controversy, Broos was full of praise for Mbokazi after his performance against Egypt, where South Africa narrowly lost 1-0 following a contentious first-half penalty.

"There were some angry people when I said a few weeks ago that it was not the best choice for him, but you saw why against Egypt," Broos said.

"He was my Man of the Match, the way that guy played."

The Bafana coach highlighted a key second-half moment involving Mohamed Salah as evidence of Mbokazi's quality.

"There was a deep ball to Salah and Mbokazi went in for the duel. Salah had no chance, no chance at all, and that shows his quality," he added.

Broos reiterated his concern that the talented defender must make the right career choices to fulfil his potential.

"You now understand why I'd be very angry if he ruins his career. This is a guy who can have a very big career, a very big career."

Mbokazi has been a mainstay in Broos' side at the tournament, playing the full 90 minutes in both Group B fixtures - the 2-1 victory over Angola and the narrow defeat to Egypt.

The defender is expected to play a crucial role in stopping Zimbabwe attackers in Bafana's last group game on Monday.