Abdeslam Ouaddou makes a strong claim about Relebohile Mofokeng after Carling Knockout win
- Abdeslam Ouaddou has made a strong claim about Relebohile Mofokeng after his performance during Orlando Pirates' win over Marumo Gallants in the Carling Knockout Cup final
- The 21-year-old South African international scored the only goal of the match as the Soweto giants secured their second title this season
- Social media users also shared their thoughts on the Bafana Bafana star's performance against Marumo Gallants this weekend
Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has singled out Relebohile Mofokeng as a pivotal player capable of driving the team toward the league crown.
Source: Getty Images
The French-Moroccan manager made the remarks after Mofokeng’s decisive extra-time goal helped secure victory over Marumo Gallants in the Carling Knockout Cup final on Saturday.
When asked about Mofokeng’s earlier slump during the season, which coincided with an injury setback, Ouaddou noted that the midfielder had been experiencing fatigue due to the injury. However, after a brief recovery period, he has returned to strong form.
In his past five matches, Mofokeng has contributed a goal and two assists, highlighting his growing influence on the team.
With his confidence and energy restored, Ouaddou is convinced that the 21-year-old can play a key role as the Pirates aim to defend their position at the top of the Betway Premiership, a place they achieved after defeating Durban City in their last league game. The Soweto giants are currently leading the standings with 28 points from 12 games.
Ouaddou makes bold Mofokeng claim
Ouaddou expressed how vital Mofokeng is to the team, describing him as a player whose passion for football is constant and whose quality as both an athlete and a person stands out. He explained that President Yama2K began the season below his usual level because he had played numerous matches for the national team and had little time to rest after a previous campaign of 40 to 45 games, noting that he was not a robot.
The former Marumo Gallants head coach said they allowed him some recovery time, after which he returned with excellent fitness and contributed significantly to the team’s success in its last four matches.
He added that there is a clear difference between a fully fit Rele Mofokeng and one who is fatigued, stating that even at 70% fitness, he can influence the team positively, and at 100%, he believes "the president" is capable of helping them win the league title.
Source: Twitter
Mofokeng's performance and scoring the winner in the Carling Knockout Cup final sparked different views from social media users.
Gugu Dlamini shared:
"When the day comes for him to leave Orlando Pirates, his last game must be played at FNB. He deserves a decent farewell☠️☠️☠️."
Malerothe Van Vuurn said:
He is like Messi, sometimes u might think he is not in the game, but he will score a crucial goal
Tumi Mtoni wrote
"Jose Reveiro said. You must not sub him even when he's quiet, but he will create that one magical moment."
Leshuar Caleb Medupe implied:
"This guy is a game changer. He is very, very dangerous. His connection and combination with his teammates is out of this world."
Patrick Taele commented:
"His combination with Saleng was unbelievable. I remember him asking Saleng, "O mpone neng?" 😄. Saleng are ah kgale ke ho bone. Ke a tseba.😄"
Isenathi Qhayiya Mqonde
"The Happiest moment I expect from him is him scoring a Goal in the Derby. Patiently waiting for that moment. He has slayed Sundowns on two occasions. It's High time he rises in the Derby now."
Pirates sign new player from PSL rivals
Briefly News also reported that Orlando Pirates have signed a new player ahead of the January transfer window from their PSL rivals.
The Soweto-based club have reportedly been chasing the player since the summer, before reaching an agreement with his club this December.
Source: Briefly News
