Oswin Appollis and Relebohile Mofokeng Shine in Pre-Season as Pirates Build Dynamic Wing Partnership

Orlando Pirates’ preparations for the 2024/25 season are in full swing, and one of the biggest positives to emerge from their pre-season camp in Marbella, Spain, is the blossoming partnership between wingers Oswin Appollis and Relebohile Mofokeng. The duo’s chemistry on the flanks is catching attention as they gear up to become vital cogs in a squad brimming with new talent.

The Buccaneers’ latest test came in the form of a friendly clash against Cypriot champions Pafos FC, a match that ended in a 1-1 draw. Despite the result, it was a moment of magic between Appollis and Mofokeng that stole the spotlight. After falling behind early, Pirates drew level in the 24th minute when Appollis delivered a perfectly timed pass to Mofokeng, who coolly finished past the Pafos goalkeeper.

Speaking to SuperSport TV after the match, Appollis broke down the thinking behind the assist. “I saw Rele already moving, then I saw the space between the centre-back and the left-back,” he explained. “It was gonna be difficult if I hit it in the sky, so I had to play it through that gap. Rele’s touch was perfect. If the defender had touched him, it was a penalty.”

Mofokeng, only 20 years old but already showing maturity beyond his years, emphasized the importance of staying calm in such moments. “Eish! Composure,” he laughed. “I was thinking of passing, but then I saw the defender reading it. So I took a touch forward—if he touches me, it’s a penalty. The pass was perfect. It made it easy for me.”

The pair’s understanding on the pitch comes at a crucial time for Pirates, who are undergoing a minor rebuild under new head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. With nine new signings already integrated into the squad—including the likes of Sipho Mbule, Yanela Mbuthuma, and Sinoxolo Kwayiba—the competition for starting spots is fierce. But with Mohau Nkota’s departure, the door is wide open for Mofokeng and Appollis to cement their places as the starting wide men.

Both players offer pace, intelligence, and the ability to unlock defences—qualities that will be crucial as Pirates look to challenge on multiple fronts this season. Their growing connection was not only on display against Pafos but has also been a consistent feature during training sessions in Spain.

With just weeks remaining until the MTN8 quarterfinal against Rise and Shine, Pirates fans have reason to be optimistic. If the partnership between Appollis and Mofokeng continues to flourish, it could be a game-changing element in the Buccaneers’ push for silverware in 2024/25.