Xoki opens up on the mental side of his comeback

Orlando Pirates veteran defender Thapelo Xoki has opened up on the long road back to competitive action after spending more than a year on the sidelines.

Xoki's last appearance for the Sea Robbers came on May 24, 2025, meaning his wait to play again has now stretched beyond 16 months.

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The 31-year-old has since watched on as Pirates have strengthened their options at centre-back, while also working his way back to full fitness following a serious injury setback.

Xoki opens up

Despite the difficult period, Xoki has revealed what has helped him navigate his lengthy spell away from the pitch, with his words offering an insight into a side of rehabilitation that often goes unseen.

"For me, I have always said I'm grateful first to the team, for the support they have given me over the past year, to the medical department," Xoki told journalists.

"They have gone far beyond to try and assist me to get back, not only physically, but also psychologically, because to be out for a full year, it's not an easy thing.

"But yeah, I'm just excited to help the group in whatever capacity I can and looking forward to help the guys also make history.

"For us, it's just about making history and making sure that we better the history of the club."

'It's a lot mental'

Xoki also highlighted the mental battle that came with spending such a long period away from football, while crediting the Pirates medical team and his teammates for helping him through it.

"Being injured is not only physical. It's a lot more mental than the body. That's why I give credit to our physios.

"They are not only treating the body, but also they were counselling me most of the time. And I also have to give credit to my teammates who have never made me feel like I'm an outsider."

Competition for places

Having now progressed to the point where he is back in contention, the defender's next target is to get minutes under his belt.

The challenge for the former AmaZulu star is that Pirates' other centre-backs have also made a strong start to the campaign.

Lebone Seema and Nkosinathi Sibisi have established themselves as the preferred pairing and were rewarded with Bafana Bafana call-ups.

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Sbangani Zulu has also enjoyed his fair share of opportunities since joining from Richards Bay. Mpho Chabatsane, meanwhile, is also pushing for more regular opportunities after finding his minutes limited so far.

Pirates eye MTN8 glory

The Buccaneers face Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, with kick-off scheduled for 18:00.

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