Joseph Makhanya Proud of Role in Developing Mohau Nkota and Relebohile Mofokeng

Orlando Pirates legend Joseph Makhanya is beaming with pride as he watches two of his protégés, Mohau Nkota and Relebohile Mofokeng, shine in the first team. The duo, who have been crucial to the Buccaneers’ success this season, represent the strength of the club’s youth development system.

Since Makhanya took over the Orlando Pirates reserve team, he has provided senior coach Jose Riviero with two talented young players who have quickly made a name for themselves. Makhanya, who spent over a decade at the club as a player, is thrilled to see Nkota and Mofokeng flourishing in the professional ranks.

The 43-year-old coach, affectionately known as Duku-Duku, expressed his pride in the young players’ progress and emphasized the importance of youth development. Makhanya believes that their performances highlight how crucial it is for young players to have the right mentorship and opportunities. He added that it was heartwarming to see other teams giving young talents like Nkota and Mofokeng the chance to prove themselves on the big stage.

“I’m impressed with how [Nkota] has settled,” Makhanya said after the Black Label Cup presser. “Football is all about consistency, and I hope he stays true to it and works even harder because the more you are getting results, it means you need to work harder to remain consistent. I hope he becomes consistent in his approach because the level is up a bit, meaning now, every week teams will be planning against him and he needs to sharpen his skills.”

Makhanya also praised Mofokeng’s recent accomplishments, noting the 20-year-old’s pivotal role in securing a win against Mamelodi Sundowns in the Nedbank Cup final, as well as scoring in the MTN8 final against Stellenbosch. “What pleases me the most is that there is a belief, especially in youth, where you see other teams are giving them an opportunity to show their talent,” he said. “Even big teams are now starting to give them a chance.”

Perhaps the most rewarding moment for Makhanya came during the Caf Champions League campaign, where he watched his protégés combine in a high-profile match. “I watched Pirates when they were playing in the Champions League. It was nice to see Nkota and Mofokeng combining to score goals, especially at that level. As coaches from DDC, we are very proud of what is happening.”

The pair have become a constant threat in attack, with their partnership showing no signs of slowing down. Mofokeng has contributed with multiple assists, including two to Nkota in the opening match of Pirates’ Caf Champions League campaign. Their continued success in the continental competition is a testament to the effectiveness of the DDC league in developing top-tier players.

As they continue to impress, the growing success of Nkota and Mofokeng demonstrates the importance of giving youth players an opportunity in the first team. Their emergence could set a new precedent for other clubs to invest more in youth development.

Looking ahead, the Buccaneers will face a tough test against Al Ahly in their next Champions League match. With Nkota and Mofokeng continuing to shine, Orlando Pirates are in a strong position to challenge for top honors. Fans will be hoping that the young duo continue to deliver for the team as they aim to progress in the competition and possibly secure another major title.