Former Head of Development at Orlando Pirates, Augusto Palacios is confident that recent debutant Simiso Bophela will have a successful career at the club.
Bophela made his debut for the Buccaneers in a goalless draw at Maritzburg United in a DStv Premiership encounter at the Harry Gwala Stadium on Wednesday.
The 21-year-old, who was introduced as a second-half substitute, earned plaudits from the Bucs technical team.
Bophela, like many other aspiring young players, were nurtured by Augusto Palacios at the Orlando Pirates development academy.
“It’s so amazing how he came to Pirates after he started out at my academy,” Palacios said in an interview.
“He has a twin brother, Simo who came first and after a couple of months, he brought his brother (Simiso) to the academy.
“They played for the Under-11s, Under-14s and Under-15s at my academy before I took them to Pirates.
“They came from a disadvantaged family but have a good family that supports them.
“I am proud to see Simiso getting his chance at Pirates because I have always believed in his talent.
“Besides his talent, he has a great character and attitude as a human being.
“He has the talent and is skillful. He will compete at Pirates.
“I am happy that Pirates continue to believe in giving youngsters a chance to showcase their talent at the highest level.”
Palacios, while at the Bucs development team, helped produce outstanding players like the likes of Benedict Vilakazi, Lebohang Mokoena, Joseph Makhanya, Thabang Radebe, Tlou Segolela and the late Senzo Meyiwa.