There are few players as special as Relebohile Mofokeng in the PSL, his down-to-earth personality and wealth of talent making it intrinsically hard to divide allegiances over his human and football qualities.
A Statement Performance for Pirates
Mofokeng grabbed his first professional hat-trick in the 6-0 drubbing of TS Galaxy by Orlando Pirates in a recent Betway Premiership clash, steering the Sea Robbers back to the top of the log standings.
The 21-year-old was his usual self: humble in victory. He regarded the match ball and Player of the Match-winning performance as “special”, adding, “I have been waiting for this moment [since turning professional]”.
Perfect Timing Ahead of the World Cup
Witnessing Mofokeng live up to such moments in a year when Bafana Bafana are set to return to the biggest football event – the FIFA World Cup – is moving, especially for the discerning observer.
Mofokeng’s form hasn’t only become a source of happiness for Pirates supporters, who continue to believe they can win the league title and end a 14-year drought, but it also whets the appetite of Bafana supporters ahead of the World Cup.
The dream of seeing the country’s football jewel rub shoulders with the best on the biggest stage is becoming a reality with every passing game, as expectations grow that he won’t merely be there to make up the numbers, but to compete and help restore the nation’s pride.
Seeing Mofokeng in form and enjoying his football is both pleasing and comforting, especially after he struggled earlier in the season due to hype and setbacks in securing overseas moves, resulting in a slump that briefly gave his naysayers something to talk about.
Broos’ Belief and Guidance
The person most pleased about Mofokeng’s form is certainly his Bafana coach, Hugo Broos. As such, the 73-year-old must feel like he’s ageing backwards, optimistic about the future of both Mofokeng and the national team.
In his assessment of Mofokeng’s shortcomings, Broos spoke like a true guardian, explaining that a dip in form was expected for the 21-year-old.
“He’s in good shape, huh!” an ecstatic Broos said during Bafana’s media briefing on the first day of camp ahead of the two World Cup preparatory friendlies against Panama at Moses Mabhida Stadium and DHL Stadium on March 27 and 31, respectively.
He continued: “He quickly became a star here in South Africa. And once you are at that level, things become difficult. It happened with Rele also. There were so many things in his head that he forgot to play football. That is totally normal, I don’t blame him for that.
“You are such a young guy, and suddenly everyone wants to be with you. It’s difficult to manage that. He didn’t have a good outing last season, but little by little he’s been coming back. Recently, you see the Rele that everyone wants to see – a very good player!”
More Than Just Talent
Broos’ happiness is understandable. Mofokeng hasn’t only been a marvel to watch because of his talent, but also because of his friendly and warm personality, treating people from all walks of life with measured respect.
These are traits that Broos strongly believes in. The Belgian has placed emphasis on attitude and discipline as core values that will help both individuals and the collective succeed in the national team.
Mofokeng hasn’t only embodied those values at national level, but at club level as well – so much so that even opponents find it easy to share an affectionate moment with him, even after he’s left them in his wake on the pitch.
The No. 10 Role and Growing Responsibility
By now, though, Mofokeng will know that “heavy is the head that carries the crown”. As such, he won’t do it alone in North America. He will need the guidance and support of his teammates for his star to shine brightly.
His torch must shine now in the preparation matches, starting against Panama in Durban and Cape Town. Luckily for him, Broos has identified the perfect position where he can continue to thrive and build momentum ahead of the World Cup – the No. 10 role.
“He plays in a different position. More central. I think that’s the future for Rele – he’s not a winger,” Broos said.
“He can play on the wings against an opponent that’s not so strong, but against strong opponents, he’ll never play a good game because he’s not a winger. He doesn’t have explosiveness or on-the-line dribbling. Those are not his qualities.
“His qualities are intelligence, giving good passes, and using spaces. That’s where he’s best … We know that it’s his best position, and he’s coming to Bafana to play there.”
Panama Test and World Cup Preparation
Granted, Panama may not be the fanciest or toughest opponents, but they are still capable of giving Bafana a solid preparation camp. Ranked 33rd in the world, Panama are 27 spots ahead of Bafana.
Their significance goes further, as they will also help prepare Bafana for the opening match against co-hosts Mexico on June 11 – a repeat of the 2010 global showpiece in South Africa.
A Rising Star Carrying a Nation’s Hopes
Mexico will have their usual stars, plying their trades across the globe. But Bafana are set to field a squad dominated by local superstars, overseas-based talismans, and Relebohile Mofokeng.
The Sharpeville midfielder might be pint-sized, but he defies his stature on the pitch. He cuts a menacing figure, leaving markers in his wake and supporters mesmerised, urging him on for more. That’s why he couldn’t have made the nation prouder, hitting the right notes at the right time.
Bafana Squad to Face Panama:
Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams, Renaldo Leaner, Ricardo Goss
Defenders: Khuliso Mudau, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Aubrey Modiba, Khulumane Ndamane, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Thabang Matuludi, Ime Okon, Samukelo Kabini
Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Jayden Adams, Thalente Mbatha, Sphephelo Sithole
Forwards: Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, Lyle Foster, Bongokuhle Hlongwane, Themba Zwane, Thapelo Maseko, Evidence Makgopa, Relebohile Mofokeng
Witness the rise of South Africa's next football icon as Bafana Bafana prepare for the world stage. Visit SuperSportBet to find the latest match odds and outright markets for Bafana’s upcoming international friendlies.
