Relebohile Mofokeng: Patience as the Key to National Team Success

South African midfielder Relebohile Mofokeng, a rising star at Orlando Pirates, continues to wait for his breakthrough as a starter in the national team. Since making his debut for Bafana Bafana against Zimbabwe in June 2024, the 20-year-old has accumulated five appearances—all as a substitute. Despite his impressive performances at club level, national team coach Hugo Broos has been cautious about introducing the young talent into the starting XI.

Broos’ Approach to Mofokeng

Coach Hugo Broos has been clear about his philosophy for developing young players like Mofokeng. Speaking about the midfielder’s current role, Broos highlighted the importance of physicality in modern football.

“You need that power in modern football. Technically, you have to be good, but the physical side of the game is equally important,” Broos explained. “Mofokeng is not a powerful player yet, so he needs someone next to him who can do the hard work. That’s why it’s a little early to start him in games.”

Broos emphasized that while Mofokeng possesses technical skill and potential, the demands of international football require both physical and mental endurance. The coach praised the progress of the national team, noting their improved ability to compete with strong teams like Algeria and Ivory Coast, thanks to a balanced squad with physical strength and technical prowess.

A Promising Talent

As the youngest member of the Bafana Bafana squad, Mofokeng has time on his side. His performances for Orlando Pirates, where he is a regular starter, have earned him recognition as one of South Africa’s brightest prospects. The midfielder’s ability to create opportunities and maintain composure under pressure has made him a valuable asset at the club level.

With Bafana having already secured qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), their final two qualifiers against Uganda and South Sudan provided an opportunity for experimentation. Fans expected Mofokeng to start, but he remained on the bench against Uganda and played only 16 minutes against South Sudan.

Building for the Future

The immediate focus for Mofokeng is the upcoming Caf Champions League group-stage campaign with Orlando Pirates, starting with a challenging away fixture against CR Belouizdad. This competition will offer the young midfielder valuable experience against high-caliber opponents, further preparing him for the demands of international football.

By the time South Africa resumes their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March 2025, Mofokeng is likely to have developed further under the guidance of Broos and through his club commitments.

Relebohile Mofokeng’s journey with Bafana Bafana is a testament to the importance of patience and strategic development. While he has yet to cement his place in the starting XI, the groundwork is being laid for a promising future. As he gains more experience and grows into a physically stronger player, Mofokeng could become a key figure in South Africa’s midfield, representing the next generation of football talent.