Orlando Pirates fans will be hoping that Relebohile Mofokeng can provide the spark against TS Galaxy.
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Orlando Pirates’ character in the Betway Premiership title race will be firmly tested in their final nine matches, starting with a tricky away clash against TS Galaxy on Sunday afternoon (3.30pm kick-off) — a fixture they cannot afford to slip up in.
Pirates began the year in strong form and set the pace at the top of the standings. However, they have since dropped to second place after a 1-1 draw with Siwelele, while Mamelodi Sundowns have moved two points clear after 21 games.
With Sundowns seasoned in title run-ins — having won the league for the past eight seasons — they are widely expected to maintain their lead and secure yet another championship.
Pirates, however, cannot afford to focus on their rivals. Their task is simple: win their remaining matches and ensure they push the title race to the limit rather than surrender. That mission begins at Mbombela Stadium against Galaxy — a side equally desperate for points as they look to end a six-game winless run, having lost five games and drawn one.
Despite that, Pirates remain favourites. The Sea Robbers boast depth and quality, something that’s reflected in their strong representation in the Bafana final squad that will face Panama in two international friendlies this month at Moses Mabhida Stadium and DHL Stadium respectively. They have six selected players — just one fewer than Sundowns.
Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine, notably omitted from the latest Bafana squad, will be eager to respond. With 14 clean sheets already this season in the league, he faces added pressure to deliver more commanding performances to force his way back into the national setup ahead of the World Cup. However, he cannot do it alone.
The defensive unit must step up to contain Galaxy’s threats, particularly the experienced Victor Letsoalo and the pace of Seluleko Mahlambi.
Pirates’ backline is also under scrutiny, with captain Nkosinathi Sibisi facing criticism from supporters following recent errors. He will need to raise his level to solidify both his club and international standing.
At the other end, Pirates must be more clinical. While strikers Evidence Makgopa and Yanela Mbuthuma have struggled for consistency, the attacking trio of Oswin Appollis, Relebohile Mofokeng and Tshepang Moremi offers creativity and spark capable of unlocking any defence.
Their influence will be crucial against Galaxy, especially as they aim to head into the Bafana camp high on confidence.
There is particular focus on Mofokeng. Hugo Broos has endorsed the view of his club coach Abdeslam Ouaddou that he is better suited to a No 10 role — a position that allows him to dictate play and provide the creative spark in the final third.
*Mihlali Baleka is Independent Media's senior football reporter and a panelist on the group's soccer podcast, The D-Line, which is exclusive on our YouTube channel The Clutch