Bafana Bafana sensation Relebohile Mofokeng is already turning heads in Belgium with Union Saint-Gilloise after an impressive start to the 2026-27 season. Meanwhile, former national team star Steven Pienaar insists coach Hugo Broos must unleash the young playmaker at the World Cup.
Pienaar Urges Broos to Trust the Fearless Playmaker
The debate over who should pull the strings in the heart of South Africa’s midfield has a new and prominent voice. Former Bafana Bafana and Everton midfielder Steven Schillo
Pienaar has jumped into the discussion surrounding Relebohile Mofokeng, arguing that national team coach Hugo Broos needs to give the 21-year-old an unfettered run on the biggest stage.
Pienaar issued his remarks while participating in a veterans’ exhibition match in Pachuca, Mexico, ahead of the 2026 World Cup opening game against co-hosts Mexico at the iconic Estadio Azteca. Looking back at his own generation’s opening clash against Mexico in 2010, the former midfielder pointed directly at the Orlando Pirates product as a player with the raw ingredients to light up the tournament.
“Of course [we have to unleash him] because he is fearless. He just needs to go out there and play football,”
Steven Pienaar, former Bafana Bafana midfielder
Pienaar added a cautionary note about shielding the young star from excessive media hype, emphasizing that patience remains essential for a player of his age.
“He’s got all the attributes to become one of the best players for South Africa. He is a special player and as a country we have to protect him. We don’t have to put too much pressure on him.”
Steven Pienaar, former Bafana Bafana midfielder
Rapid Rise in Europe and Domestic Triumph
Pienaar’s backing arrives as Mofokeng continues to adjust quickly to European football following his departure from the Premier Soccer League. After helping Orlando Pirates capture the Betway Premiership title for the first time in 14 years behind a stellar campaign of 10 goals and eight assists across 27 league appearances, the attacker moved abroad to join Union Saint-Gilloise in Belgium.
The transition across continents has proven seamless. Mofokeng has already netted twice in four Jupiter Pro League matches for the 2026-27 campaign. He also delivered under pressure in July, converting the decisive penalty during a shootout victory over Club Brugge to secure the Belgian Super Cup.
That swift adaptation has already sparked speculation regarding his long-term future in Belgium. Shaun Bartlett expects the talented youngster to attract further transfer interest and move on sooner rather than later.
Midfield Selection Dilemmas for Bafana
As South Africa prepares for its World Cup opener, Broos faces a tactical dilemma in the No. 10 role. The choice largely boils down to deploying the dynamic, youthful energy of Mofokeng or turning to 36-year-old Mamelodi Sundowns veteran Themba Zwane, who has battled for form following an injury last season.
While Zwane saw limited action as Sundowns claimed their second Champions League title, Mofokeng arrives brimming with momentum. Pienaar noted that other young players around the globe are shining on major stages, making this the ideal moment for the Orlando Pirates star to showcase his craft.
Pienaar also extended his support to striker Lyle Foster, urging critics to quiet down after a difficult Africa Cup of Nations campaign in Morocco.
“People from the outside always put pressure, but there is a reason why the coach has selected him, and [it’s to do with] what he brings to the team. The coach has his reasons, and the only thing he must do is work hard and prove everyone wrong on the field.”
Steven Pienaar, former Bafana Bafana midfielder
Transfer Watch and Continental Challenges
Back home, the South African champions face ongoing decisions regarding squad depth and market value. Transfer speculation is not limited to Mofokeng, as the club’s hierarchy deals with fresh interest from an unnamed foreign suitor tracking 25-year-old winger Oswin Appollis. Appollis proved vital during the previous domestic run by contributing nine goals and six assists in 30 league appearances.
To help offset departures, Orlando Pirates brought back Mohau Nkota on loan, continuing a trend of academy products generating significant value. Yet the immediate focus must remain strictly competitive. Following a scoreless draw against Mauritian side La Cure Waves FC in their CAF Champions League qualifying first leg, the Buccaneers head into a demanding stretch across both continental and domestic fixtures.
The squad travels for the crucial Champions League qualifying second leg on Saturday, 12 September, before pivoting back to domestic league action with a fixture against Durban City scheduled for 17 September.