Relebohile Mofokeng Shines as Orlando Pirates Lift Carling Knockout Ahead of AFCON 2025
South African international Relebohile Mofokeng has rediscovered his form at a crucial time as Bafana Bafana prepare for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco from December 21 to January 18. The 21-year-old attacker played a pivotal role in Orlando Pirates’ Carling Knockout triumph last weekend.
Mofokeng scored the decisive goal in extra time against Marumo Gallants at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, handing Pirates another trophy under coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. His performance marked a strong return after struggling with consistency and injuries earlier this season. Since returning to action, he has scored one goal and provided two assists, demonstrating his influence on the field.
Pirates coach Ouaddou praised Mofokeng’s resilience and impact. “The season before he played 40-45 matches; he is not a robot. I can understand that he was a bit tired, so we gave him rest. He came back with very good fitness. In the last three or four matches, he has been part of the team’s success, providing fantastic assists. You can see the difference between a fit Rele Mofokeng and a tired Rele Mofokeng. Even at 70 percent, he can help the team. At 100 percent, he can make us win the title,” Ouaddou said.
The Buccaneers have experienced departures this season, with Mohau Nkota joining Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq and Mbekezeli Mbokazi moving to Chicago Fire. Despite these losses, Mofokeng has stepped up to fill the void, proving his importance to the squad.
Former Kaizer Chiefs winger Junior Khanye highlighted Mofokeng’s influence, noting his maturity and potential. “You need players who will raise their hands like Rele. The boy waited for his time and he stood out. I think big things are coming for him. Maybe he’ll go to Spain,” Khanye said.
Mofokeng’s recent form also secured his inclusion in Bafana Bafana’s final squad for AFCON 2025. Coach Hugo Broos expressed confidence in the young attacker. “About Relebohile, I like him as a player. He’s very talented. He had a few problems with an injury, so I was very happy to see him play again with Pirates, and that’s why I didn’t doubt one second to take him with the selection,” Broos said.
South Africa will face Egypt, Angola, and Zimbabwe in Group B, and Mofokeng’s versatility and recent performances will be key as the team aims to defy expectations in Morocco.
With his career on an upward trajectory, Mofokeng has not only secured a trophy with Orlando Pirates but also positioned himself as a key figure for Bafana Bafana heading into one of the continent’s most prestigious tournaments.
