Orlando Pirates defender Tapelo Xoki says he doesn’t dwell too much on donning the captain’s armband at the Soweto giants.
Xoki, 28, has been one of the most consistent players in the Pirates squad since he arrived from AmaZulu in July 2022, partnering the likes of Olisa Ndah and Nkosanathi Sibisi.
His form has earned him a place in the national team, who are currently in Rwanda for their second 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
The Old Mutual Academy product led Pirates, in the absence of Innocent Maela to the MTN8 title this season but he says he doesn’t let it get to his head.
“I don’t like to really pinch myself in moments like these because it will take my focus away, but yes it’s a huge thing for me – as an individual but I think I will give it focus when my career is finished,” Xoki said about captaining Pirates.
“I think it will be better that way, now if I think about it, I might be finding myself in cloud nine and not focusing on my job at hand.
“So for me, I just try and help the team as much as I can with the responsibility that I have, the experience I have, and I know there are many leaders in the team and we help each other as much as we can, we pull in one direction as a group and as a unit.”
Xoki has scored three goals and registered two assists in 45 games across all competitions for Pirates’ in his central defensive role.
