Former Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana winger Lebohang Mokoena believes the Buccaneers will be unable to keep Relebohile Mofokeng beyond next season following the youngster’s impressive performances at the FIFA World Cup.
The 21-year-old attacker has been one of Bafana Bafana’s standout players in the two matches he has featured in, producing eye-catching displays on the biggest stage.
With South Africa still to face Canada on Sunday, the Orlando Pirates star has another opportunity to enhance his growing reputation and attract interest from European clubs.
Mokoena believes Mofokeng has already done enough to earn a lucrative move abroad.
Mofokeng impressive in the World Cup
“I’ve been saying this from the first game. When we talk, other people should open their ears and listen. The boy has been on fire at the Amstel Arena and throughout South Africa, and then you come to the World Cup and you don’t want to play him,” Mokoena told SoccerBeat.
The former Buccaneers winger, affectionately known as ‘Cheeseboy’, also praised Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos for handing Mofokeng his World Cup debut.
“Big ups to the nation for urging the coach to play Rele, and look at the results. In the last two games he has played, he has been one of the best players creatively. Every time we went on the counter-attack, he was the player we looked for to provide the final pass.
“Sorry to say this, but we are going to lose this boy,” Mokoena added.
Mofokeng is one of the youngest players in the Bafana Bafana squad at the World Cup and could become South Africa’s second-youngest goalscorer at the tournament if he scores against Canada.
