The Nkota Story - from brink of uncertainty to match winner

Orlando Pirates are off to a dream start in the CAF Champions League, after securing a vital 2-1 victory over CR Belouizdad on Tuesday, courtesy of a brace from Mohau Nkota.

Dreams have the power to inspire and uplift but they can also be shadowed by nightmares that threaten to derail them. The Nkota story is a dream realised, and a nightmare overcome.

As the 20-year-old sprinted to the corner flag to celebrate his second goal with his teammates on Tuesday night, the joy on his face, was that of a boy realising a dream coming true. However, few know that his journey was almost abruptly cut short earlier this year.

On March 24, 2024, Mohau’s career and future hung in the balance. While playing for the Pirates Diski Challenge squad in Tsakane against Kaizer Chiefs, the Kimberly-born attacker suffered a devastating neck injury that saw him being rushed to the hospital.

Nkota faced an agonising wait of uncertainty. Doctors were unsure of the extent of the injury but the symptoms he was displaying were not positive.

Club employee Thabang Lepule, who was bedside with Nkota throughout the entire ordeal recalls: “While we were waiting for the results to come out, Mohau was visibly distraught. Asking questions like, “Am I going to play again? “Is my career over? “It can’t end like this surely.”

“It was so tough because I could see that the boy was dreading the worst. We didn’t know if he would fully recover, let alone return to the sport he loved”, concluded Lepule.”

As for Mohau, he said: “It was one of the toughest moments of my life. I had recently started training with the first team, and I believe at DDC I was playing some of my best football.

“The injury came at the worst time possible. Here I am about to become a professional player, and this happens. During my 4 to 5 hours wait at the hospital, I had many thoughts coming into my head but fortunately through God’s grace, I overcame my situation.

“My return to playing was slow and taxing on me mentally because I had long dizzy spells and constant headaches.”

Slowly but surely, he fought his way back onto the pitch, defying expectations and proving that his spirit was as strong as his talent.

Fast-forward to today, the name Mohau Nkota is on the lips of the hordes of the Mighty Buccaneers supporters after his impressive display in Algeria last night.

“It’s hard to put into words what this means to me,” Nkota said after the game, visibly emotional. “To score twice in such an important match is a dream come true. I’m just so grateful for everyone who believed in me and for this incredible club.”

The youngster is slowly endearing himself to the Ghost with his performances. With only seven games into his professional career, Nkota has already notched up four goals to his name.

© Orlando Pirates