Relebohile Mofokeng, a 21-year-old Bafana Bafana star, is enjoying a strong start with Belgian club Royale Union Saint-Gilloise. Mofokeng was moulded by the Safa School of Excellence, a renowned institution that produced players like former Everton midfielder Steven Pienaar and South African striker Bernard Parker. Before joining Orlando Pirates, he also trained with Mamelodi Sundowns. His move to Royale Union Saint-Gilloise has made a significant impact on his family and community in Sharpeville.
Mofokeng's father, Sechaba, a former semiprofessional soccer player, initially opposed his son's soccer career. Sechaba had concerns about the potential risks and limited opportunities in the sport. He advised Relebohile to focus on his education and consider soccer as a part-time activity. However, Relebohile's mother, Noame, was extremely supportive of her son's soccer ambitions, attending every match and encouraging him to push his limits.
Relebohile's decision to pursue a soccer career has made his father proud. Sechaba attributed his change of heart to the current opportunities available to young players, including social media platforms that can help them gain exposure. He also acknowledged the role of Relebohile's mother in supporting his son's dreams. Sechaba emphasized the importance of parental support in a child's sporting career, citing his own experience with Relebohile.
Relebohile's rise to fame began with his professional debut with Orlando Pirates in May 2023. He has since become a key player for Bafana Bafana, scoring his first two goals for the national team in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaign. The team's successful start under new coach Pitso Mosimane has been impressive, with Relebohile playing a creative role in their wins against Eritrea and Guinea.
Relebohile's influence extends beyond the soccer field, with young players like Mpho Padime citing him as a role model. Padime, an exciting Pirates youngster, has spoken about the positive advice and guidance he has received from Relebohile. Sechaba described Relebohile as a humble and hardworking individual who has adjusted well to life in Belgium.
Relebohile's performances for Royale Union Saint-Gilloise have been impressive, with four goals and one assist in six outings. His blistering start has generated interest from other clubs, and it is unlikely that he will remain with Union for long. Sechaba expressed pride in his son's achievements, citing his representation of South Africa at the World Cup as a highlight.
The Mofokeng family is proud of Relebohile's accomplishments, and Sechaba is optimistic about the future of soccer in the Vaal area. He noted that the area has produced talented players like Thapelo Maseko and Tshepang Moremi, and he hopes that more players will emerge from the region. Relebohile's story serves as an inspiration to young players from similar backgrounds.
Key points
- Relebohile Mofokeng's father initially opposed his soccer career due to concerns about risks and limited opportunities.
- Relebohile has become a key player for Bafana Bafana, scoring his first two goals for the national team in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaign.
- Relebohile's performances for Royale Union Saint-Gilloise have generated interest from other clubs, and it is unlikely that he will remain with Union for long.
