The 20-year-old former SuperSport United Academy graduate joined the Buccaneers from Siwelele this season.

He was a second-half substitute for Deon Hotto in the 75th minute at the Orlando Amstel Arena as the Betway Premiership champions ran out comfortable winners.

Reflecting on the game, Rapoo admitted that he didn't expect to get minutes in the first game of the season but intends to make the most of his time with Pirates and learn from the experienced players.

"Firstly, I didn't believe it was actually happening, but once I came on, I just told myself to keep it simple and just enjoy the moment, you know, because I'm privileged to play for this big club and blessed as well," Rapoo told his club's website.

"It's been good," the player added of his time at Bucs. "I didn't feel new at all. I felt like I've been there before, everyone was friendly you know. Cash (Makhehleni Makhaula) has been a grootman that just taught me a lot and made me feel at home.

"Of course, I'm still learning as a young footballer and learning a lot from Hotto, who has been at the club for a long time, but I do feel that with the quality of set pieces I can produce, I may stand out a bit. Of course they are both top players that I can learn from as well."

Rapoo has already tasted international success as he was part of the South African Under-20 side that won the 2025 Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations.

He also played at the FIFA Under-20 World Cup, where South Africa made it to the round of 16.

"It's a dream to represent your country, and playing AFCON and the World Cup has taught me a lot about playing at the highest level for my age group.

"The pressure that comes with it teaches you to calm your nerves and just be ready for when you have to play in front of a lot of fans, and for Pirates as well," Rapoo concluded.

Neo Rapoo "privileged and blessed" to play for Orlando Pirates following Betway Premiership debut