Relebohile Mofokeng: Bafana Legend Tips Orlando Pirates Teenage Star to Eclipse South African Greats

Relebohile Mofokeng: Bafana Legend Tips Orlando Pirates Teenage Star to Eclipse South African Greats

Robert Abong'o
May 7, 2024 at 8:55 AM
In this article:
Siphiwe Tshabalala logo
S. Tshabalala
Cordoba logoMSouth Africa logo
Relebohile mofokeng
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Orlando Pirates logo
Orlando Pirates
South Africa
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South Africa Premier Soccer League logo
ZA Premier League
South Africa
  • Siphiwe Tshabalala has tipped Relebohile Mofokeng to become SA's greatest export
  • Orlando Pirates' 19-year-old has already made 34 appearances, scoring four goals
  • Tshabalala advised players to take opportunities to play abroad, citing career growth

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Former South Africa captain, Siphiwe Tshabalala, has identified Orlando Pirates' 19-year-old sensation, Relebohile Mofokeng, as the country's next big export.

The former Kaizer Chiefs star boldly claimed the teenager could potentially surpass the achievements of SA legends like Benni McCarthy, Steven Pienaar, and Lucas Radebe.

Tshabalala, who won numerous titles with Amakhosi and is the second most-capped Bafana player, believes Mofokeng has the talent and potential to make a significant impact on the global stage.

Relebohile Mofokeng in action for Orlando Pirates in a past DSTv Premiership match. Photo: Phill Magakoe.
Orlando Pirates' Relebohile Mofokeng has received praise from Siphiwe Tahsbalala. Photo: Phill Magakoe.
Source: Getty Images

The youngster has already made 34 appearances for the Buccaneers, scoring four goals and providing six assists.

As per SuperSport, he recently helped his team secure a spot in the Nedbank Cup final, a 3-0 win over Chippa United on May 4 at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

Speaking at the Nedbank Cup Ya Rona Fan Experience event, Tshabalala praised Mofokeng's influence on the game.

"He is young and very talented, and I am glad that he is getting game time in a big team. He also influences the games. He has great potential to be the best South African export, and there is a future for him in the national team," he said, as quoted by SNL24.

He also stressed the importance of playing abroad, advising players to take opportunities to play in Europe and other top leagues, not only for career growth but also for financial benefits.

Mofokeng came close to making a move to Europe last October when he underwent an assessment with English Premier League side Wolverhampton. Although the move didn't materialize, the talented teenager will likely get another chance to showcase his skills on the international stage.

Former Pirates star pleads for Mofokeng's protection

Sports Brief reported that Dumisa Ngobe wanted Pirates to manage Mofokeng well, personally and professionally.

Ngobe used Mamelodi Sundowns' handling of Percy Tau and Sphelele Mkhulise, which resulted in one becoming a continental star and the other an important part of one of the best teams in Africa.

The 19-year-old's rise has prompted many to warn against the trappings of success and the need to help the young man realise his full potential.

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Robert Abong'o
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