Mofokeng’s Orlando Pirates replacement revealed?

Spain vs Austria: Thu 2 Jul, 21:00
Portugal vs Croatia: Fri 3 Jul, 01:00
Switzerland vs Algeria: Fri 3 Jul, 05:00
Australia vs Egypt: Fri 3 Jul, 20:00
Argentina vs Cabo Verde: Sat 4 Jul, 00:00
Colombia vs Ghana: Sat 4 Jul, 03:30

Orlando Pirates will need to cast their net far and wide to find an adequate replacement for Relebohile Mofokeng. What are their options?

Pirates sell Mofokeng to Union-Saint Gilloise

It was always a matter of time. Rele Mofokeng is finalising a switch to Belgian Pro League outfit Union-Saint Gilloise. They’ll be in the Champions League next season, which must have been a significant drawcard for the 21-year-old star. Mofokeng’s sale will pull roughly R75 million into the club’s coffers, but that doesn’t mean he’s going to be directly replaced. Rumours have linked the club with a move for Golden Arrows star Siyanda Ndlovu, but that deal has hit a hurdle. It’s clear they see Ndlovu as an option in the number 10 role being vacated by Mofokeng, but there must be other options. Internally, the club will also look for more direct goal contributions from Tshepang Moremi. Mofokeng bagged 10 goals and eight assists in 27 league outings last term. Pirates have to replace that output.

World Cup update from the Americas

The World Cup Round of 32 has already delivered thrills, spills and shocks galore. Although things went according to the script when Brazil beat Japan in stoppage time, the same can’t be said in other encounters. Germany fell to Paraguay on penalties, and Morocco also needed spot-kicks to down another European opponent, the Netherlands. Their reward is a meeting with Canada in the Round of 16.

A Harry Kane-inspired England eventually got the better of a spirited DR Congo side 2-1, setting up a round of 16 meeting with Mexico. There was late drama when Belgium came from 2-0 down to force extra time against Senegal. Just when it looked as though we were destined for another shootout, the Belgians won a penalty which Youri Tielemans coolly slotted after 120 minutes had elapsed. Heartbreak for the Lions of Teranga.