Orlando Pirates left-back Neo Rapoo has opened up about his official debut for the club and how senior players have helped him settle in.
Rapoo, 20, made a switch from Siwelele FC to Pirates in the current transfer window an also formed part of the side’s European pre-season tour where he played in three of five Pirates matches.
The South African U20 international made his official debut for the Betway Premiership defending champions in their season opening 2-0 victory over newcomers Milford FC over the weekend at the Orlando Amstel Arena.
Rapoo, who replaced Deon Hotto in the 75th minute, told www.orlandopirates.com how privileged he felt coming on while also revealing how midfielder Makhehleni Makhaula has been a big brother to him showing him the ropes.
“Firstly, I didn’t believe it was actually happening,” said Rapoo.
“But once I came on, I just told myself to keep it simple and just enjoy the moment, you know, because I’m privileged to play for this big club and blessed as well.
“It’s been good. I didn’t feel new at all. I felt like I’ve been there before, everyone was friendly you know. Cash [Makhehleni Makhaula] has been a grootman that just taught me a lot and made me feel at home.
“Playing with [Oswin] Appollis, Tito [Patrick Maswanganyi], Thalente [Mbatha] and others at SuperSport and coming here with [Bohlale] Ngwato and [Gamphani] Lungu – it just felt good to be there.”
Rapoo added that playing in the junior national team has equipped him to handle the pressure that comes with playing for a club like Pirates.
“Yeah, it’s a dream to represent your country, and playing AFCON and the World Cup has taught me a lot about playing at the highest level for my age group,” added Rapoo.
“The pressure that comes with it teaches you to calm your nerves and just be ready for when you have to play in front of a lot of fans, and for Pirates as well.”
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