• Mofokeng rises to prominence at Pirates
• The young star is gaining attention
• Chiefs icon Tshabalala shares views on the player’s future

WHAT HAPPENED?

In the ongoing Premier Soccer League season, the gifted footballer has netted four goals and delivered six assists in 33 appearances across all competitions.

Hailing from the esteemed School of Excellence, Mofokeng has carved a spot for himself at the Sea Robbers, securing a consistent place in coach Jose Riveiro's starting lineup.

As his career trajectory points upward, Amakhosi legend Siphiwe Tshabalala sees in him the potential to stand among South Africa's finest exports in future.

WHAT TSHABALALA SAID?

“Rele is one of them. He is young, very talented and I am glad that he is getting game-time in a big team and also he influences games,” he told KickOff.

“He has a great, great potential of being the best South African export and there is a future for him in the national team. 

“I would advise players to go abroad. When the opportunity arises, I would advise that. We must also have higher aspirations, South Africa is not the roof,” he added.

“There is life in Europe, now there’s also your Saudis, so it’s not only about the career, it should also benefit you financially.

“Playing football is not just for recreational purposes, it’s work and it’s business and therefore it has to reward you,” he concluded.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

The skilful winger started the 2023/24 season with the Pirates senior team and travelled to Spain, where they faced Israel side Maccabi Tel Aviv, Ecuador’s Independiente del Valle and LaLiga’s UD Las Palmas.

After impressing in the mini pre-season in Spain, the wonderkid was invited for a trial with English Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers in October 2023.

WHAT NEXT FOR PIRATES?

As Mofokeng gains popularity among the Sea Robbers fans, he will be hoping to help Pirates in their quest for a potential Caf Champions League qualification, as they vie for a second-placed finish with Stellenbosch on the PSL standings.

Next up for the Buccaneers is a match against Chippa United on Wednesday, May 8th.