Relebohile Mofokeng’s resurgence fuels Orlando Pirates’ title charge

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Relebohile Mofokeng is dubbed the new “Prince of South African Football”, but he can make that status official if he continues his rich vein of form and guides Orlando Pirates to the throne of local football – the Betway Premiership title – and Bafana Bafana to a historic Fifa World Cup campaign.

Mofokeng has been in blistering form for Pirates in their last two matches, helping his side to back-to-back 2-0 league victories over Magesi and AmaZulu at Orlando Stadium and Moses Mabhida Stadium respectively.

The youngster played a key role in all four goals, assisting and scoring in Orlando before scoring and assisting again in Durban within the space of three days.

Granted, his goal contributions were the turning point in steering the Sea Robbers to the top of the log standings, and three points clear of second-placed champions Mamelodi Sundowns. But Mofokeng’s influence went beyond goals, as he exuded confidence in all areas of his game.

The 21-year-old was at his best with deft touches, exploiting pockets of space and taking on defenders, drawing praise from coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, who believes he is most effective operating as a No.10, behind the defence.

Ouaddou’s praise was justified. In recent months, Mofokeng had looked a shadow of his former self, struggling with confidence and appearing to lose the momentum of a career once tipped to grow in leaps and bounds following the reported collapse of overseas moves.

Plagued by injuries and low on confidence, Mofokeng briefly seemed out of sync with Pirates’ transition from Jose Riveiro to Ouaddou, the club’s title ambitions, and his importance as a cornerstone of Bafana Bafana’s AFCON aspirations.

His average performance at AFCON also attracted widespread criticism, with some suggesting this could be his worst season since turning professional. But those assessments failed to account for what was still to come.

In the past two matches, Mofokeng has looked happy and confident on the pitch – an image cherished by many across the football fraternity, regardless of club allegiance, after he instantly endeared himself to fans upon his debut.

While supporters of Pirates’ title rivals – Kaizer Chiefs and Sundowns – may not welcome the return of a smiling, revitalised Mofokeng, knowing the danger he poses, the Ghost and neutrals alike are unbothered.

This is the season Pirates need Mofokeng the most – their most lethal weapon firing on all cylinders, aiming to hunt down Sundowns in their pursuit of a first league title in 14 years.

Pirates are operating in a stable, controlled environment under Ouaddou’s supervision. The coach has boldly declared his intention to dethrone the eight-time defending champions, rather than hiding behind cautious rhetoric.

While Ouaddou’s leadership may not have been flawless, its impact is evident in how he stretches his squad, ensuring fringe players are not merely substitutes but genuine contributors.

The club’s recruitment strategy – sticking to what works – has also stood out. Unlike previous seasons marked by scattergun signings, Pirates have adopted a measured approach, strengthening only where necessary.

This healthy environment bodes well for Mofokeng, who is set to head into World Cup preparatory matches next month full of confidence and ready to show coach Hugo Broos that he is prepared for his first global showpiece, wiser and more mature.

Mofokeng understands the importance of helping Bafana Bafana compete on the world stage, which would serve as a fitting tribute to the departing Broos, who has shaped the careers of many players, including Mofokeng, during his tenure.

The time for Mofokeng to truly earn the moniker “Prince of South African Football” has arrived. All that remains is for him to maintain his form and help both Pirates and Bafana Bafana shine.