Former Orlando Pirates winger Mohau Nkota has broken his silence on long-standing speculation about his club loyalties, admitting that he was forced to support Kaizer Chiefs as a child. The 21-year-old, who rose through the Pirates academy before breaking into the senior team in 2024, addressed the controversy after being photographed wearing a Chiefs home kit months earlier. In a recent interview, Nkota set the record straight, stating, “I support Pirates now. I grew up supporting Chiefs because my father forced me.” The revelation puts to rest questions about whether the young star harbored secret admiration for the Soweto rivals.
Nkota’s breakthrough campaign with Pirates during the 2024/25 season quickly established him as one of the club’s brightest young talents, leading to a reported £1.575 million (approximately R36 million) transfer to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq. He signed a three-year deal until June 2028, with Pirates securing a 15% sell-on clause. Reports indicate the former Transnet School of Excellence product now earns close to R398,000 per week. Since joining the Saudi outfit, the speedy winger has registered two goals and three assists in 21 appearances across all competitions, though consistency has been an issue.
Despite a promising start abroad, Nkota’s recent struggles for form have affected his standing in the Bafana Bafana setup. While he has returned to regular matchday involvement at Al-Ettifaq, it remains unclear whether his performances will convince coach Hugo Broos to include him in the final national team squad for World Cup qualification. With his father’s early influence now public, Nkota’s focus is firmly on proving his worth for both club and country.