Is Tefo Mofokeng the next breakout star for Orlando Pirates?
Orlando Pirates loanee Tefo Mofokeng takes part in a training session with Botswana Premier League side Mochudi Centre Chiefs.
Image: Mochudi Centre Chiefs on Facebook
South African football fans have been alerted to a new Mofokeng tied to Soweto giants Orlando Pirates and turning heads in the Botswana Premier League.
The 25-year-old Tefo Mofokeng currently plays for Mochudi Centre Chiefs on a season-long loan from the Buccaneers. Word coming out of Botswana is that he is good. According to Botswana national team coach Morena Ramoreboli, Mofokeng looks very much like a Pirates player.
So, just who is Tefo Mofokeng, and can he live up to the hype and become a star at Orlando Pirates?
The Ennerdale Mofokeng attracted attention in the colours of Pele Pele FC, Pirates’ feeder club playing in the ABC Motsepe League. In order to help him get first-team minutes, it was decided he would be loaned out to Mochudi Centre Chiefs in February of this year.
Since temporarily moving to Botswana, a positional change has helped his development. Normally a right back, he has been playing further up the field, resulting in his impressive haul of goals for the club.
“He’s a very dynamic guy. It’s funny because when he came here, he was a right back. I looked at him and said, ‘No way, I’ll play you as a wing forward because you’re smart, you can find your way around, and you have an eye for goal’. He has never disappointed,” said Centre Chiefs coach Pontsho Moloi, according to FARPost.
Mofokeng, however, doesn’t see himself settling on the wing and believes he can ultimately be useful in the middle of the park.
What’s clear is that Mofokeng’s evolution in Botswana has put him firmly on Pirates’ radar. His newfound versatility, sharpened attacking instincts and growing confidence have transformed him into a genuine contender for a first-team place. Whether he ultimately makes the jump will depend on how he adapts back in South Africa – but for now, he has given the Buccaneers every reason to take notice.
IOL Sport