By Dylan Bettencourt
- Mofokeng scored the decisive goal in extra time against Marumo Gallants at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium this past weekend to seal the Carling Knockout trophy for Pirates.
- Coach Ouaddou called him the president and said when he is fit, even at 70%, he changes games and at 100% he can win the league.
Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has crowned Relebohile Mofokeng as the key to the club’s league title hopes.
The praise came after Mofokeng’s match winning performance in the Carling Knockout final against Marumo Gallants this past weekend.
The 21 year old winger netted the decisive goal in extra time at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium, sealing the trophy for the Buccaneers.
Ouaddou praised Mofokeng for his passion and impact on the team. He called him the president and said he is a player who lives and breathes football.
“When he’s fit, even at 70%, he changes games. If he reaches 100%, the president is someone who can make us win the league,” said Ouaddou.
Mofokeng has scored once and assisted twice in his last five games since returning from injury.
He missed three matches in October and November, leading to rumours of a possible exit. But Ouaddou says it was just fatigue.
“He’s not a robot. Last season he played 40 to 45 games, had very little rest, and was exhausted. We gave him a break and he came back strong,” he said.
Pirates sit top of the Betway Premiership with 28 points from 12 games. They are two points ahead of Mamelodi Sundowns, who have a game in hand.
The Carling Knockout final was their last match for 2024. The league is now on hold for the Africa Cup of Nations.
Pirates return to action on 24 January against Sekhukhune United.
Pictured above: Orlando Pirates celebrating their Carling Knockout victory.
Image source: @orlandopirates
